Thousands Mourn Israeli Man Murdered in West Bank Terror Attack

Natanel (Nati) Sharon, 48, a father of six, was laid to rest on Sunday in the settlement of Ali Zahav in the Samaria region of the West Bank. Sharon was killed on Yom Kippur eve in a shooting attack at the Ein Ri'ah spring near the settlement of Neve Tzuf. He had gone to the spring with his 16-year-old son, Yoav, to immerse himself before the holy day.

As they returned to their car after the immersion, a terrorist opened fire. Natanel was killed, but his son Yoav managed to escape unharmed after his father warned him about the attacker. The terrorist, identified as Hamas operative Qadri Samara, 37, had apparently scouted the location the day before, knowing it would be frequented by visitors for immersion.

During the funeral, Sharon's wife, Merav, described him as a devoted family man who prioritized honoring parents, including her own. She recounted his meticulous planning for a family vacation scheduled for the following week, aimed at strengthening their bond. She also spoke of his final act of heroism, warning Yoav in his last moments, which saved the son's life.

Yoav, addressing the mourners, thanked his father for the 16 years they had together and for saving his life. He recalled his father's warning and his own subsequent escape, expressing gratitude to God for his survival. He vowed that the family would continue together.

A tracker from the Binyamin Brigade who was in the area returned fire, wounding the terrorist and preventing him from continuing his attack. The gunman fled to Ramallah, where he received medical treatment and was subsequently arrested by the Duvdevan Unit while in bed. Initial investigations suggest he acted alone.

Natanel Sharon worked as an IT systems analyst. His wife, Merav, holds a doctorate in computer science and lectures on artificial intelligence at Ariel University. The family is described by community members as deeply rooted and Natanel as a kind and beloved individual. The community is now grappling with the profound loss.