Family Mourns 12-Year-Old Elchanan Karni After Tragic Drowning in Jordan River

Elchanan Karni, a 12-year-old boy, tragically drowned during a family boating trip on the Jordan River amid the Bein Hazmanim vacation period. The incident occurred when Elchanan fell from a watercraft, prompting an urgent search by police and rescue teams. After extensive and tense efforts, his body was recovered from the water, and he was laid to rest late at night.

The family and community are devastated, as Elchanan was expected to begin eighth grade in the upcoming school year and was preparing for his sister's wedding scheduled for the month of Cheshvan. Instead, his fresh grave stands as a painful reminder of the loss of a pure soul. Mourners, including his family and teachers from the Breslov Talmud Torah in Brachfeld, described him as a special child known for his dedication to Torah study, good character, and positive spirit.

The tragedy has cast a heavy shadow over what should have been a joyful time, turning celebrations into profound grief. A poignant photo of Elchanan’s newly dug grave circulated shortly after the heartbreaking funeral, symbolizing the abrupt end to his young life and the sorrow felt by all who knew him.