The Israeli Police confirmed Monday that an explosion in Tel Aviv's Hatikva neighborhood Sunday night, which killed a man carrying a bag of explosives, was indeed a terror attack. The blast, which authorities say was caused by the premature detonation of the terrorist's explosive device, also left a bystander injured and caused damage to a truck parked nearby.
Investigators have identified the terrorist as a Palestinian man in his 50s from the West Bank.
Video: Footage of the attacker walking through a crowded area shortly before the explosion
The incident resulted in injuries to Leonid, 33, who was driving an electric scooter through the area at the time. He suffered moderate injuries and was rushed to a local hospital for surgery.
"I remember a sudden flash, which is still vivid in my mind," Leonid later recalled. "I've sustained several wounds and am awaiting surgery. I was riding quickly and didn't notice anyone suspicious. The force of the explosion threw me off my scooter. Initially, I thought it might have been a gas canister explosion. I've seen explosions before, but this one was different – there was fire and debris everywhere. I managed to continue for a few more yards before realizing I had been hit. A soldier came to my assistance and called for emergency services. Currently, I'm experiencing difficulty breathing and considerable pain."
Authorities are working to determine how the attacker infiltrated the area, whether or not he had local collaborators, and whether the attack was orchestrated by a larger organization.
On Monday afternoon, Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility for the failed attack.
