Boy Injured in Terror Attack Becomes Honorary Police Officer for a Day

Five-year-old Ray, who was severely injured in a stabbing attack in Beit Shemesh less than a month ago, fulfilled a lifelong dream by visiting the Jerusalem District Police headquarters. During the visit, which took place just before Rosh Hashanah, Ray was presented with a specially tailored police uniform, rode in a police vehicle with flashing lights, met a police horse, and spoke with District Commander Superintendent Avshalom Peled.

Ray's cousin, 7-year-old Hillel Mordechai Dadon, was killed in the August attack. Ray sustained critical injuries. The police presented Ray with honorary police ranks in a moving ceremony that brought even hardened investigators to tears. "This child has been through unimaginable trauma. To see him standing today, walking, functioning, and smiling is incredibly moving. It is a great honor for us to stand here today and salute him," said Major Guy Avrahami, deputy commander of the interrogation division at the district headquarters, who is involved in the investigation and accompanying the family.

Ray's mother, Linoy, expressed that Ray's smile while wearing the uniform provides the family with much-needed strength and hope. The police department issued a statement, "You have proven to us all the power of life and what true heroism is, one that is greater than any rank or uniform. We wish you and the entire family a year of recovery, peace, and security. Happy New Year, Officer Ray! We are always watching over you."

The attack occurred on Emek HaZaitim Street in Beit Shemesh when two cousins, aged 5 and 7, were playing in a backyard pool. The suspect, 26-year-old Liel Ifargan, allegedly approached the apartment hours before the incident, had a brief conversation with the homeowner, and returned later to stab the children. He is currently under investigation, with an indictment expected soon.

Two weeks prior, a new sports field was inaugurated at the 'Ahava Yisrael' school in Beit Shemesh in memory of Hillel Mordechai, who loved soccer. The first kick on the new field was taken by Hillel's brother, Yossef Dadon.