Two Remarkable Women and a Hero Laid to Rest After Tragic Terror Attack

by Yoav Bowman

The Kedumim Council expressed their profound grief in a statement: “With deep mourning and heavy hearts, we announce the tragic murders of Kedumim residents Rachel Cohen and Aliza Reis. Alongside them, Elad Winkelstein, who previously lived in Kedumim, also lost his life.”

Lives of Faith and Service

Elad Yaakov Winkelstein
Master Sergeant Elad Yaakov Winkelstein, 35, a resident of Ein HaNatziv and an investigator at the Ariel police station, was a former security officer and long-time resident of Kedumim. In the tragic attack, Winkelstein heroically fired two shots at the terrorists before being fatally struck. His son was present in the vehicle at the time of the shooting. He leaves behind his wife, Tal, and their two children, Naveh and Omer. Winkelstein will be laid to rest this evening at 7:00 PM on Mount Herzl.

Rachel Cohen
Rachel Cohen, 73, a retired educational counselor and long-time resident of Kedumim, is survived by her husband and five daughters. Her daughter Naomi lovingly eulogized her, saying: ”Mom was a woman full of joy, kindness, and positive energy. She radiated goodness to everyone, full of faith and love. She was our family’s guiding light, a loving mother and grandmother. Mom taught us to see the good in life, and she dedicated her years to helping countless people, always listening and supporting everyone unconditionally. Her loss is a deep void, but her legacy of love and optimism will remain with us.”

Aliza Reis
Aliza Reis, 70, a resident of Kedumim and a dedicated educational counselor, leaves behind her children and family. Her son, Yair, shared heartfelt memories: “We were planning a surprise 70th birthday party for her next week. Mom was larger than life, achieving so much through sheer determination. Like Rabbi Akiva, she began studying at university at 40 and never gave up. She was a strong woman, always thinking of others. A founding member of Kedumim, she volunteered tirelessly for the Civil Guard and was a gifted counselor who continued to guide others even after retirement. She saw only the good in others and loved life and her family above all.”

The Pursuit of Justice

Footage from the scene reveals the terrorists arriving in a white vehicle, with one opening fire on a bus and a car while another was seen near the trunk of the vehicle. The attackers are believed to have fled to nearby Palestinian villages. In response, the IDF has launched a large-scale manhunt, deploying significant forces, blocking roads, and imposing a military closure on villages in the area to prevent further escapes. Security officials emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We must turn Judea and Samaria into the central front in the IDF’s fight against terror.”

It is vital that Israel remains steadfast in pursuing justice as it works to track down these terrorists and protect its citizens.

“Follow justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the Lord your God is giving you.” – Deuteronomy 16:20