Israeli Father Dies Saving Son in Slovenia River Fall

Ghil Hallel, a 44-year-old from Kibbutz Yizrael, tragically died in Slovenia while attempting to rescue his 7-year-old son from a river. The incident occurred during a family hike along a river canyon. Hallel's son slipped and fell into the water, hitting rocks, and his father lost his footing while trying to save him, falling into the abyss. The boy was airlifted to a hospital, is conscious, and is being treated for a broken leg and other injuries.

Hallel's wife, Rotem, posted a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, expressing her disbelief and pain. "I am not ready yet to speak about you in the past tense. You are my home. What home am I supposed to return to?" she wrote, describing Hallel as her anchor for twenty years and struggling to imagine life without him. She also mentioned her focus on their injured son, stating she cannot allow herself to mourn Hallel fully while their child fights to recover.

Hallel's brother, Ben, shared new details about the accident, confirming the sequence of events. He described Ghil as athletic, funny, smart, and deeply devoted to his family, especially his three children. Ben also reflected on his own protective feelings towards his older brother, stemming from their age difference. He noted that while some family members have changed their surname, he has retained the original name and is still verifying all details of the incident.

Kibbutz Yizrael released a statement expressing shock and grief over Hallel's death, noting he had moved to the kibbutz upon marrying a local woman and had become an active member. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is assisting the family with the repatriation of Hallel's body to Israel. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.