Israeli Father Dies in Slovenia While Rescuing Son Who Fell Into Abyss

Gil Hillel, a 44-year-old Israeli from Kibbutz Yizrael, died Saturday during a family trip in Slovenia when he fell into an abyss while attempting to rescue his 7-year-old son. The boy had slipped and fallen first. The child sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to the University Hospital in Ljubljana.

The tragedy occurred near the Savica Waterfall in the Bohinj region of northwestern Slovenia. According to Slovenian police, the family had stopped in a rest area when the boy wandered off. His parents heard his cries, and as Hillel searched for his son, he fell into the ravine.

Rescue forces located Hillel in the Savica River canyon with severe injuries, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. His son was also found in the canyon, seriously injured, and received initial treatment before being flown to the hospital. The Bohinj mountain rescue service received the call around 6 p.m. and initially believed only the child had fallen. Rescuers descended nearly 60 meters to the riverbed. Several members of the GRS Bohinj mountain rescue service, who were training nearby and included drone operators, were able to reach the scene quickly, assisting in the rescue and preparation for evacuation.

Local rescuers expressed their condolences to the family and wished the boy a swift recovery. Slovenian police are investigating the incident. Kibbutz Yizrael, Hillel's home community, expressed shock and grief over the loss of their "dear member," describing him as a devoted husband and father of three. The community is supporting his extended family and children.