Man Murdered in Terror Attack Laid to Rest; Widow Recounts Final Moments

Natanel Kron, who was killed in a shooting attack near the Benjamin region on the eve of Yom Kippur, was buried overnight in the cemetery of his hometown, Ali Zahav.

Hundreds attended the funeral, where his widow, Merav, tearfully eulogized him. She recounted how in his last moments, Natanel realized the danger and warned their son, Yoav, who survived the attack. Merav described Natanel as an incredibly involved father, active in all aspects of his children's lives, from academics to emotional well-being. She emphasized his deep devotion to his family, stating, "The family was his whole world."

She also spoke of their 18-year marriage, noting they had postponed celebrations due to busy periods around holidays. Natanel was preparing for a pre-Yom Kippur meal when he was killed. His son Yoav stated he did not notice the attacker approaching until the last moment, and that his father's actions allowed him to survive.

An investigation by the Shin Bet and IDF revealed the attacker, Qadri Samara, 37, from the village of Biddo near Ramallah, is affiliated with Hamas and has a prior record, including previous arrests for attempted attacks. Samara had acquired an M-16 rifle and scouted the location the day before, identifying the popular spring as a target. He was arrested at a Ramallah hospital after the attack, having bragged about his actions to his wife.

Security forces have raised their alert level in the West Bank amid fears of further attacks during the Sukkot holiday. Natanel Kron, an IT systems analyst and father of six, was described by the Samaria Regional Council as a "kind, humble, modest, and beloved man." His wife, Dr. Merav Kron, is a lecturer at Ariel University. The local council and community are providing support to the family.