Long Island Mourns the Presumed Death of Omer Neutra, Soldier Taken Hostage by Hamas
In somber news from the Middle East conflict, the Israeli military announced the tragic death of Omer Neutra, a 21-year-old soldier from Plainview, Long Island. Neutra, who was believed to have been captured alive by Hamas militants during the October 7th attack on southern Israel, was killed that day. His body is believed to be in Gaza.
A Community Grieves
“The news brought me to tears,” recounted Rick Lewis, chief executive of the Mid-Island Y JCC, who knows the Neutra family. “We’re all dumbfounded.” Lewis, who met Monday with Jewish leaders from the region, highlighted the deep impact of the Neutra family’s ordeal on the Long Island community.
“For many locals,” Lewis stated, “the Neutra family has become the Long Island representation of everything that’s going on in Israel. We want to avoid any more families ever going through the pain and suffering that they’re going through.”
Governor Kathy Hochul, who had previously advocated for Neutra’s safe return, expressed her profound sorrow. On X (formerly Twitter), Hochul wrote: “We just learned that this prayer couldn’t be answered for the family of Omer Neutra. Omer was barbarically murdered by Hamas in the October 7 attacks. We pray that his body can be returned to his family, who have been speaking out for him and all hostages since that horrific day.”
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman also issued a statement of sympathy. He described Neutra as “a cherished Nassau County resident, a fellow American, and a dedicated IDF soldier, whose life was tragically cut short by acts of unimaginable terror.”
“Omer’s unwavering courage and commitment to defending the values of freedom and justice serve as an enduring inspiration to us all,” added Blakeman. “ This devastating loss is felt deeply not only by his family and friends but by our entire community, which grieves the passing of one of its own. Our hearts are heavy, and our prayers are with Omer’s loved ones as they navigate this time of indescribable pain and loss.”
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino ordered flags on town property to be flown at half-staff in honor of the Plainview resident.
“It is with deep sadness that we learn of the tragic loss of Omer Neutra, a beloved son of the Town of Oyster Bay and IDF soldier, who was killed by Hamas terrorists,” Saladino stated. “This heartbreaking news is a profound reminder of the immense sacrifices made by individuals who stand in service to protect and defend democracy around the world… This is a time of unbearable grief and a tragic loss for our entire town.”
A Year of Uncertainty and Agony
Neutra, a 2019 graduate of the Schechter School of Long Island and descendant of Holocaust survivors, took a gap year after high school and moved to Israel to enlist in the Israel Defense Forces. Weeks before the tragic confirmation of his death, his father, Ronen Neutra, spoke about the agonizing uncertainty they had faced since the Hamas attack.
Vonan Neutra described the past year as “filled with agony — an agony no parent should have to go through.”
The Ongoing Gaza Conflict
The announcement of
What actions are being taken by the Long Island Jewish community to support the Neutra family and one another in the wake of Omer’s death?
## Interview: Long Island Community Mourns Loss of Omer Neutra
**Host:** We’re here today with Rick Lewis, CEO of the Mid-Island Y JCC, to discuss the tragic news of Omer Neutra, a Long Island soldier killed during the October 7th attacks in Israel. Mr. Lewis, Omer’s death has deeply impacted the community. Can you share your reflections?
**Lewis:** This news has been devastating. It brought me to tears, and I know countless others in our community feel the same profound sadness. Omer was only 21 years old. He was a son, a friend, and a member of this community. His loss is truly heartbreaking. [[1](https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/02/world/middleeast/omer-neutra-israel-oct-7-gaza-hamas-hostage.html)]
**Host:** Omer’s family has been vocal about his captivity and their desire for his safe return. What has this experience been like for the Long Island Jewish community?
**Lewis:** The Neutra family has become a symbol of the pain and anxiety many in our community have felt during this conflict. They bravely shared their story, demanding answers and advocating for Omer’s release. Their strength has been an inspiration, but the news of his death is a heavy blow.
**Host:** You mentioned meeting with other Jewish leaders. How are people coping with this tragedy?
**Lewis:** We’re all in shock. We’re coming together to support the Neutra family and one another – offering condolences, sharing memories of Omer, and providing emotional support. Our hope is that Omer’s body can be returned to his loved ones, so they can finally have some closure amidst this overwhelming grief.
**Host:** Governor Hochul and County Executive Blakeman have both expressed their condolences. What message do you have for the community now?
**Lewis:** This is a time of mourning, but it’s also a time for unity. We must stand together against hatred and violence, supporting the Neutra family and working towards a lasting peace. Omer’s memory will forever be a reminder of the human cost of this conflict.
**Host:** Thank you, Mr. Lewis, for sharing your insights during this difficult time.
