Plainview, NY - Tragedy has struck the Long Island community as the Israeli military confirmed the death of 21-year-old Omer Neutra, a Plainview native and soldier believed to have been captured by Hamas during the October 7th attack on Israel.
Neutra, a platoon commander in the Israel Defense Forces, was one of seven American Israelis believed to be held hostage in Gaza. The military announced his death based on intelligence and expressed condolences with the conventional Jewish phrase "May his memory be a blessing."
Neutra's parents, Ronen and Orna, had tirelessly campaigned for his release since the attack, speaking at protests in the U.S. and Israel, addressing the Republican National Convention, and maintaining contact with President Biden's administration.
"A Long Island native, Omer planned to return to the United States for college. He dreamed of dedicating himself to building peace," President Joe Biden said. "To all the families of those still held hostage: We see you. We are with you. And I will not stop working to bring your loved ones back home where they belong."
The news sent shockwaves through Long Island, where Neutra's family had become a symbol of the ongoing crisis in Israel.
"The news brought me to tears," said Rick Lewis, chief executive of the Mid-Island Y JCC who knows the Neutra family. "We're all dumbfounded."
Lewis emphasized the community's grief and determination after meeting with Jewish leaders from the region on Monday. "We can't lose hope, as Omar's parents didn't lose hope until today," he said.
Local officials also expressed their condolences and support for Neutra's family. Governor Kathy Hochul tweeted: "We just learned that this prayer couldn't be answered for Omer Neutra’s family. Omer was barbarically murdered by Hamas in October 7 attacks. We pray that his body can be returned to his family."
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman hailed 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."
"This heartbreaking news is a profound reminder of immense sacrifices made by individuals who stand in service to protect democracy around world," Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino stated while ordering flags on town property flown at half-staff.
Neutra was a 2019 graduate of Schechter School of Long Island and descendant of Holocaust survivors who moved to Israel after gap year enlisting into IDF; father Ronen described past year uncertainty filled agony no parent should endure.
Neutra’s death comes amidst devastating war Gaza began Hamas’s attack October 7th killing over 1,200 people taking around 250 hostages; some released or bodies recovered approximately 100 remain captive Gaza.
The Biden administration actively pursuing ceasefire release remaining hostages after months stalled negotiations.