Israeli Survivor of October 7 Attack Dies by Suicide, Two Years After Tragedy

Roei Shalev, a 30-year-old survivor of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack at the Nova music festival in Israel, has tragically died by suicide. His body was discovered in a burned car near Tel Aviv, just days after the second anniversary of the massacre. Shalev had witnessed the execution of his girlfriend, Mapal Adam, and his best friend, Hili Solomon, during the attack. He was also shot while attempting to shield Adam. In his final social media post, Shalev expressed his inability to endure the ongoing pain, stating, “I just want this suffering to end.”

The Aftermath of the Nova Festival Attack

The Nova music festival massacre, carried out by Hamas militants, resulted in the deaths of at least 378 individuals, including 344 civilians. The attack left survivors grappling with profound trauma and grief. Shalev’s death underscores the long-term psychological toll on those who witnessed or were affected by the violence. His mother also succumbed to suicide shortly after the attack, highlighting the devastating impact on families.

Calls for Enhanced Mental Health Support

Shalev’s passing has reignited discussions about the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support for survivors of terrorist attacks. His father, Ronen Shalev, described the situation as a “national emergency,” emphasizing that thousands of survivors are struggling to cope with their trauma. Mental health professionals and community leaders are advocating for increased resources and services to address the psychological needs of those affected by such tragedies.

Conclusion

Roei Shalev’s death is a poignant reminder of the enduring effects of violence and the critical importance of mental health care for survivors. As communities mourn his loss, there is a collective call for action to ensure that individuals affected by trauma receive the support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.