Tragic closure two years after the Nova Festival attack
The death of Roei Shalev, 29, marks another painful chapter in the aftermath of the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on the Nova Festival. Shalev, who survived the harrowing events that killed his girlfriend, Mapal Adam, 27, and their friend Hilly Solomon, died in a car fire near Poleg Beach in Netanya, Israel, just after the second anniversary of the festival massacre. His death follows the loss that began for him and many others on that unforgettable night.
The events at Nova Festival and the immediate aftermath
On the night of October 7, 2023, as celebrations continued, rockets interrupted the music and panic spread. Roei Shalev, Mapal Adam, and Hilly Solomon found themselves trapped at the festival grounds. The trio tried to escape in their car, but armed gunmen closed in, and they were forced to shelter under a car. The attackers located them, and all three were shot. Shalev later described an agonizing seven hours with two bullets in his back before help arrived as the Israeli army made its way to the scene.
The loss of Mapal Adam, in particular, reverberated through their circle and across communities that watched in horror as the attack unfolded. A week after the incident, Shalev’s mother took her own life, adding a deeply personal layer of tragedy to an already devastating story. In fundraising posts for festival survivors and their families, Shalev spoke of the utter darkness and the lasting impact of the trauma they endured.
From survivor to continuing struggle with trauma
The mental health consequences for survivors and loved ones of mass violence are enduring. In Shalev’s own words, the aftermath included flashbacks, anxiety, and sleep disturbances that shadowed him for years. His supporters say the emotional toll for those who lived through the attack remains profound, underscoring that healing is not linear and that some struggles persist long after the headlines pass.
Two years on: memory, grief, and the burden of loss
As the anniversary cycle recurs, survivors confront memories that can trigger intense pain and a sense of ongoing danger. The Nova Festival tragedy is remembered not only for the immediate violence but for the long arc of grief it cast across families and friends who lost loved ones or witnessed unimaginable scenes. The death of a survivor such as Shalev two years later highlights how trauma can echo through time, complicating personal milestones and daily life.
<h2 Community response and resources for those affected
News outlets and community organizations continue to cover the incident with sensitivity, while support networks emphasize the importance of accessible mental health resources for survivors and families. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or profound distress, support is available. In the UK, Samaritans can be reached at 116 123 or via jo@samaritans.org. If you are outside the UK, seek local crisis hotlines or contact emergency services in your area.
<h2 Looking ahead
As investigations continue and families seek closure, the Nova Festival tragedy remains a stark reminder of the human cost of violence. Stories like Shalev’s underscore the need for ongoing care, awareness, and community support to help survivors navigate the long shadows cast by such events.
