Mourners gathered to bid farewell to Chen Amir, a municipal patrolman who lost his life in a terror attack in Tel Aviv. Chen Amir, a 42-year-old married father of three, was laid to rest at Kibbutz Re’im in southern Israel. During the eulogy, his widow, Vered Assayag Amir, expressed the pain of their daughters who keep asking when their father will return. She described Chen Amir as a national hero and their personal hero, saying that his sacrifice left a huge void in their lives.
Chen Amir’s fellow patrol officers also paid tribute to him, with one describing him as having a good heart and being a fighter. Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai and Science and Technology Minister Ofir Akunis were among the mourners. Opposition Labor MK Gilad Kariv also attended the funeral and expressed his condolences.
The terror attack took place in a bustling area of Tel Aviv, where the two municipal security officers approached a suspicious individual. When the suspect refused to cooperate and pulled out a handgun, he opened fire and hit Chen Amir. The second officer retaliated and shot the gunman, who was later declared dead.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended the vigilance and pursuit of the patrolmen, which prevented a more significant attack. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid expressed sympathy for Chen Amir’s family and referred to him as a hero who lost his life while protecting the city’s residents.
During a press conference, Vered Assayag Amir spoke about her husband’s bravery and willingness to help others. She mentioned that he was always the first to take action during previous terror attacks, and he had received numerous thank-you certificates for saving lives.
The loss of Chen Amir has left a profound impact on his loved ones and the community, as they mourn the loss of a dedicated patrolman who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.