Full Breakdown
Tragic Death of Nova Festival Survivor Roei Shalev
10/11/2025, 8:13:14 PM
Overview of the Incident
Roei Shalev, a survivor of the October 7, 2023, Nova music festival massacre, died by suicide on Friday, October 6, 2023, just three days after the second anniversary of the tragedy. Shalev's girlfriend, Mapal Adam, was murdered in front of him during the attack by Hamas gunmen, which resulted in over 360 fatalities. Shalev, who was shot in the back while attempting to shield Adam, survived the attack but faced profound emotional trauma in the aftermath.
Background of the Nova Festival Attack
On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on the Nova music festival near Kibbutz Re'im, leading to widespread chaos and violence. Shalev and Adam, along with their friend Hilly Solomon, attempted to escape but were forced to hide under a truck. Adam was shot at close range while Shalev lay beside her, playing dead for hours until rescued by the Israeli army. The emotional toll of witnessing his girlfriend's murder and the subsequent loss of his mother to suicide a week later deeply affected Shalev.
Emotional Struggles and Final Days
In the two years following the massacre, Shalev struggled with severe grief, anxiety, and flashbacks. He publicly shared his experiences on social media, seeking solace and connection with others who had faced similar trauma. However, as the anniversary of Adam's death approached, Shalev expressed feelings of despair in a social media post, stating he "couldn’t go on anymore" and asking for forgiveness. His friends and family grew increasingly concerned for his well-being, prompting searches when he went missing.
Discovery of Shalev's Body
Shalev's body was discovered in a burning car near Poleg Beach in Netanya after he filled a jerrycan with fuel earlier that evening. Emergency services pronounced him dead at the scene. The Nova Community Association mourned his loss, describing him as a "pillar of the community" and urging awareness of the mental health challenges faced by survivors and bereaved families.
Community Response and Calls for Support
The tragic circumstances surrounding Shalev's death have prompted discussions about the mental health support available for survivors of the October 7 attacks. Leaders from various political parties, including Avigdor Liberman and Yair Golan, emphasized the need for the state to provide adequate support for those grappling with trauma. The Nova Tribe Community organization called for compassion and vigilance regarding the mental health of survivors, highlighting the ongoing struggles many face in the wake of such profound loss.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I just want this suffering to end. I’m alive, but all is dead inside.” — Roei Shalev
- “Roei was murdered on October 7 and died yesterday. I have no words and it will take time to find them. I hope these two kids are hugging and smiling right now,” — Maayan Adam, television presenter and sister of Mapal Adam
- “We will remember him in his brightest moments — for his bravery, his role as captain of the Nova Tribe basketball team, and his tireless support for his friends in their hardest times. In this dark hour, we ask everyone to hold on together, to truly see one another, and to pay attention to every person around us. We have endured much pain in the past two years; we survive it together, and together we will survive this unbearable loss too.” — Nova Tribe Community statement
Conclusion
Roei Shalev's death underscores the lasting impact of trauma on individuals and communities affected by violence. As friends, family, and the wider community grapple with this loss, the call for increased mental health support and awareness remains critical.
