West Hartford Native Murdered While In Israel: Jewish Federation

WEST HARTFORD, CT — The West Hartford community is mourning the loss of one of its own after he was killed in an apparent terrorist attack while visiting Israel Monday evening.

According to the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford, the victim was identified as West Hartford native Elan Ganeles, 27, who was gunned down.

The federation, which is based at 333 Bloomfield Ave., in West Hartford, reported that Ganeles was in Israel to attend a wedding.

The federation said Ganeles was murdered by Palestinian terrorists who came up to the vehicle he was driving and opened fire.

It said Ganeles was rushed to the hospital in "critical condition" and was pronounced dead at Hadassah Medical Center.

“Once again, a civilian was targeted by those who see violence toward the innocent as a solution,” said David Waren, president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the Ganeles family and affirm our solidarity with the people of Israel at this time of escalating violence. May Elan’s memory be a blessing for his family and our entire community.”

The Jewish Federations of North America issued a statement regarding Ganeles' death, saying it is "devestated by the news of the horrific terror attack that took the life of West Hartford, Ct native Elan Ganeles."

The organization cited Ganeles' "love for the Jewish people and Israel."

"A recent college graduate, Elan had a bright future ahead of him," wrote the Jewish Federations of North America. "Our hearts go out to his family and to the West Hartford community and we cry together with them. May Elan's memory be for a blessing."

West Hartford Mayor Shari Cantor offered her sympathies to Ganeles' family Tuesday morning.

"There are no words for the senseless killing of Elan Ganeles who was simply traveling in his car to a wedding in Israel," Cantor said in a statement.

"We are devestated to hear of this tremendous loss. The Ganeles family and the Young Israel community are in our hearts and prayers."

Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont reacted to the news as well.

"I am incredibly saddened to learn of the passing of Elan Ganeles, who grew up in West Hartford. These attacks are devastating and shocking. My condolences go out to his family and loved ones," Lamond said via social media.

For the full statement from the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford, click on this link.