A moment of carelessness turned fatal as an IDF soldier was accidentally shot by a Border Police friend in Kiryat Arba, leaving the community in mourning.
A heartbreaking tragedy struck the community of Kiryat Arba on Monday night, when IDF soldier Yosef Chaim Rabuch, son of Rabbi Eliyahu and Rachel Rabuch, was accidentally shot and killed by a Border Police officer who was his close friend.
According to initial findings, the two young men—lifelong friends—were preparing to head out together for the evening when the officer, while showing his weapon, accidentally discharged a live round that struck Yosef at close range. Despite immediate medical evacuation, Yosef was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
The Kiryat Arba Council issued a statement expressing deep sorrow:
“Upon learning of the incident, the council contacted the security, welfare, and emergency agencies to provide assistance to the family at this difficult time. We share in the family’s deep sorrow, embrace the parents, siblings, and all relatives, and will be at their disposal for any need.”
Ynet later reported new details indicating that the fatal shot was fired from a long-barreled weapon, contradicting earlier assumptions of an accidental discharge. According to testimonies, Yosef had jokingly made a “shooting gesture” with his fingers, prompting his friend to imitate the motion—only his weapon was real. The rifle went off, fatally wounding Yosef in front of his fiancée, who witnessed the horrific moment.
Friends described Yosef as a kind, committed soldier and a deeply spiritual young man who had survived a violent assault several months ago, only to lose his life in a senseless accident.
The tragedy has reignited public discussion about weapon safety within Israel’s defense forces, following a similar incident in Petah Tikva last June, when a 17-year-old was killed by a stray bullet from his sister’s legally owned military firearm.
Kiryat Arba, a community long known for its strong faith and resilience, is now grappling with unbearable grief, rallying around the Rabuch family with prayers and support.
As mourners gathered for the funeral, one family friend said softly, “Yosef Chaim was full of life, laughter, and love for his people. His light was taken far too soon—but it will not be forgotten.”
