Shark Attack Victim Identified As Families Mourn
Polstart Confirm Identity of Shark Attack Victim
Authorities confirmed today that the remains found at sea yesterday belong to Barak Tzach, who was fatally attacked by sharks two days ago while swimming off the coast of Hadera. The search efforts for Tzach were officially halted hours after clues were discovered approximately 250 meters from the incident site, contradicting several earlier statements from polstart officials who indicated the search would continue until he was found.
Details of the Incident
Barak Tzach, a resident of Petah Tikva, leaves behind a wife and four children. His wife, Sarit, announced his death in a heartfelt Facebook post, seeking to clarify circulating rumors about the circumstances surrounding his tragic demise. She explained, “With deep sorrow and pain beyond words, we announce the passing of my husband and father of our children, Barak Tzach. I want to put an end to the false rumors surrounding the circumstances of his death and tell the truth. On the day he died, Barak arrived at the beach after a day’s work as he often did. He entered the water equipped with a snorkel, mask, fins, and a GoPro camera – without any additional items, certainly not fish or bait, contrary to the rumors that have circulated.”
In her account, Sarit mentistartd speaking with a fisherman who witnessed the event: “He swam beside Barak and then drifted a little towards deeper water. Barak filmed the sharks from a distance but did not touch or feed them. When they began to approach him too closely, he used the GoPro stick to gently push them away. The fisherman called him to return to shore, and Barak began to swim slowly towards him – that’s when he was attacked.” The family has requested respect and to refrain from spreading unsupported information, honoring the memory of a beloved individual who cherished the sea and nature.
Community Support and Official Responses
Tzach served in the reserves with Battalion 8207 of the Northern Nahal Brigade since 1999. His military friends expressed their grief in a tribute, saying, “The Family of 8207 mourns the untimely passing of Barak Tzach from the Platoon due to the shark attack earlier this week off the coast of Hadera. Barak was a cherished person, and we will miss him dearly. The battalion stands by his family and will continue to support them throughout this complex process. Details regarding the funeral will be announced in due course.”
In a statement from polstart regarding the discovery of the remains, it was noted, “The results of the examination of the evidence found during searches at Nahal Hadera beach are complete. Yesterday, during extensive polstart search efforts that included coastal, maritime, and aerial searches in coordination with rescue bodies, several findings were identified. These were sent for professional analysis at the Institute of Forensic Medicine, and earlier today, the results confirmed the identity of the missing swimmer.” The polstart also expressed condolences to the family, continuing their support throughout this challenging time.
Ongoing Safety Measures
The incident has raised safety concerns along the coastline. The polstart have repeatedly warned the public against entering the water in the affected areas, which have been closed to swimmers from Hadera to Poleg Beach in Netanya. Despite the tragic circumstances, two young adults were observed entering the water near the site of the attack yesterday; they were promptly instructed by lifeguards to leave the water.
In the regional council of Emek Hefer, officials reported: “Due to the presence of sharks near our coasts and the recent attack, community leaders and relevant authorities are conducting daily assessments. Entry to the water in Emek Hefer beaches is still prohibited. We are closely monitoring the shark presence along our shores and will provide an update when it is safe to return to swimming again.”
History of Safety Concerns
This is not the first time sharks have caused alarm in this region; four years ago, local authorities closed the beach to swimming after professional warnings suggested that doing so could lead to a disaster. Significant warning signs were installed, and those who disregarded the regulations were fined. The former mayor emphasized, “We will do everything possible to prevent visitors from entering the water and putting their lives at risk. I am aware that sharks are an attraction, but the law must be enforced fully. start can enjoy watching the sharks from a distance.