Sergeant Eitan Fichman, an armored fighter in the 7th Brigade, was killed at the end of last August, during a tank exercise in the north of the country in a fire area near the “Nafah” camp. The investigation of the difficult incident was published today (Friday), and indicates that the late Fichman was killed after being hit by a tank turret from a vehicle.
From the findings of the investigation, it appears that the direct cause of death is the entry of the late Eitan into the space between the anvil and the roof of the tank turret, which caused the fatal injury that led to his death. From the findings of the investigation, it is not possible to determine with certainty what caused this.
The IDF Spokesperson also stated that the team of experts examined in depth the variety of scenarios and the most possible reasons for the occurrence of this type of malfunction. The team analyzed the various possibilities for another occurrence similar to the unfortunate case and formulated conclusions, lessons and recommendations according to each of them to reduce the risk and the chance of similar events in the future.
Also, the expert committee expanded and examined diverse systemic areas in several units and found failures and issues that are required and can be corrected in order to reduce similar risks, such as technological solutions that will reduce the chance of entering the deadly space where the late Eitan was injured.
Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi said on the subject: “Every military mission, whether during routine or emergency times, is affected by the required attention to tactical excellence, professional culture and maintaining military norms and guidelines. ‘Genesis orders’ are the foundations that lead to professionalism in the IDF, in all the forces And the arms are the ones that bind the commanders and fighters in the entire army.’
In addition to the investigation carried out by the team of experts, the military police investigation was opened, at the end of which its findings will be forwarded to the military attorney’s office for examination. As for the command and disciplinary measures on the issue, the IDF spokesperson stated that a decision on the issue will be made immediately upon completion of the investigation.