Boy Wounded 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 dream by visiting the Jerusalem District Police headquarters. During his visit, Ray was fitted with a custom police uniform, rode in a police vehicle with flashing lights, met a police horse, and spoke with District Commander Superintendent Avshalom Peled.

In a moving ceremony, Ray was awarded police ranks by the officer leading the investigation into the attack. Major Guy Avrahami, deputy commander of the interrogation division, stated, "This child went through unimaginable trauma. To see him today standing, walking, functioning, and smiling is incredibly moving. It is a great honor for us to stand here today and salute him."

Ray's mother, Linoy, expressed that her son's smile while wearing the uniform gives the family strength to continue. The stabbing incident, which occurred in early August, resulted in the death of Ray's 7-year-old cousin, Hillel Mordechai Dadon, who was also stabbed. Ray sustained critical injuries.

The police investigation suspects that Liel Ifargan, 26, approached the apartment hours before the attack, had a brief conversation with the homeowner, and returned later to stab the two children playing in a backyard pool. The police are nearing the indictment of the suspect.

Two weeks prior, a new sports field was inaugurated at the 'Ahava Yisrael' school in Beit Shemesh in memory of Hillel Mordechai, who was a student there and loved soccer. The police department conveyed a message to Ray, "You have proven to us all the strength of life and what true heroism is, one that is greater than any rank and any uniform. We wish you and the entire family a year of recovery, peace, and security. A sweet new year, Officer Ray! We are always watching over you."