A grievous Palestinian terrorist attack in the village of Huwara on Saturday afternoon led to the tragic deaths of Aviad Nir, aged 28, and his father Shay Silas Nigarkar, aged 60. Both were residents of Ashdod.

The father and son duo were in Huwara on a personal errand – to fix the air conditioner in their vehicle, purchase car accessories, and subsequently have their car washed at a nearby establishment. While their car was being attended to, a Palestinian terrorist approached and, with brutal intent, shot both men at point-blank range. The heartless act has since prompted an intense manhunt by authorities, seeking to apprehend the perpetrator.

News of the merciless killing swiftly reached their loved ones, leading family members to congregate in Ashkelon, seeking comfort in each other's company. Dr. Yehiel Lesri, the Mayor of Ashdod, lamented on their bond, stating, "In both life and death, the two remained inseparable." He further conveyed the city's collective sorrow: "Tonight, Ashdod mourns. On the sacred day of Shabbat, we lost two of our own – a father and his son. Their lives were unjustly taken in this ruthless shooting."

Heartbreaking news: Father Shay Silas Nigrekar (60) and son Aviad Nir (28) fell victim to a Palestinian terrorist in Huwara today.
May their memories be a lasting blessing. pic.twitter.com/idXfUJmjmI

— Israel in New York (@IsraelinNewYork) August 20, 2023

Upon investigation, it was revealed that the usual IDF forces patrolling Huwara were oblivious to the act, as they neither heard nor saw the assailant. The noise from the car wash conceivably provided a cloak of diversion. This finding brought to the forefront the chilling realities and risks prevalent in the region.

Shay's dear friend, Sharon Mozes, recounted fond memories of their long-standing friendship to Yedioth Ahronoth reporters. "Our paths crossed two decades ago due to our jobs as shuttle drivers. Shay was truly exceptional. Whether it was work or personal life, his wisdom was unmatched. He was by my side when I tied the knot last November. His passing is a gaping wound in my heart, and coming to terms with this reality is excruciating."

This latest act of violence occurred amidst heightened alerts of potential attacks in northern Samaria, though some were successfully thwarted. IDF reports suggested that Samaria's residents often tread with caution, avoiding certain areas. Notably, on the Sabbath, the IDF's presence on road 60, running through Huwara, is comparatively scant due to fewer Jewish residents venturing out, thus inadvertently making them vulnerable.

Two Jews were shot dead by a Palestinian terrorist in Huwara in Samaria (north "West Bank"). Gazans in Khan Younes, south Gaza Strip, are celebrating their murder.#TheGazaYouDontSee https://t.co/mdWxXhYsql pic.twitter.com/mmf8BCYA7w

— Imshin (@imshin) August 19, 2023

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his deep condolences: "The heinous act of violence on the Sabbath has deeply pained our nation. My heart goes out to the family of the departed. Rest assured, our security apparatus is tirelessly pursuing the murderer."

Concluding the nation's sentiments, President Isaac Herzog commented, "This tragic Saturday culminated in profound sorrow. A father and his son fell victim to mindless violence. I have unwavering faith that our forces will apprehend the malevolent perpetrator. We must stand united and not let terrorism prevail."