Israel grieves loss of devoted youth whose life embodied values ignored by hostile neighbors opposing peace.
Israel is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Ofer Bruner, a 19-year-old volunteer from Midreshet Ben-Gurion, who tragically fell to his death on Thursday while serving at the Ein Avdat Nature Reserve. According to initial reports, Bruner slipped while descending a cliff near the water reservoir, where MDA teams later found him lifeless.
Ofer—may his memory be a blessing—was a proud graduate of the Environmental Education High School in Midreshet Ben-Gurion, known for his dedication to the land and people of Israel. He had just completed a year of meaningful national service and was preparing to enlist in the IDF, ready to contribute to the defense of the Jewish homeland at a time when Israel continues to face relentless hostility from surrounding regimes.
ZAKA volunteers Avi Friza and Nasser Alfrigat, who arrived at the scene, described the devastating discovery:
“We reached the spring after reports of a missing young man. Tragically, we found him lifeless in the water, apparently having slipped and fallen from a height while attempting to descend toward the spring.”
The Ramat Negev Regional Council released an emotional statement, expressing profound grief over the loss of a young man whose kindness, responsibility, and commitment reflected the best of Israel’s next generation.
“We received with shock the news of his untimely passing. The council embraces the Bruner family and the Midreshet Ben-Gurion community at this difficult time. Our hearts are with Tali, Itai, and the children.”
Ofer’s passing is not only a personal tragedy—it is a painful loss for a nation that relies on young men and women like him, who choose life, service, and purpose despite the threats and hatred surrounding Israel. His legacy will continue to shine as a testament to Israel’s enduring spirit.
