Newton Native Dies in Palestinian Attack on Jerusalem Bus

Photo Credit: WHDH-TV Channel 7 News/AP

A Newton native was among those who died following a Palestinian attack on a Jerusalem bus.

Richard Lakin, a peace advocate and Israeli-American, died from the wounds inflicted in the attack on Oct. 13, reports WBZ NewsRadio.

Lakin, 76, was wounded when two Palestinians stabbed and shot passengers on a Jerusalem bus, which also killed two other passengers, reports Reuters.

One of the assailants was captured and other shot dead.

The attack was among many this month that were fueled by allegations from Palestinians that Israel changed agreement’s at this Jerusalem holy site, reported the Associated Press.

It was one of many attacks in a month of violence triggered in part over Palestinian allegations of Israel changing long standing agreements at Jerusalem’s most sensitive holy site, charges Israel has strongly denied and said amount to incitement to violence.

Lakin moved to Israel in the 1980s and was formerly a school principal in Glastonbury, CT.

Lakin’s Facebook page, which lists him as a Newton native, is flooded with condolences.

“When I was hired to teach Spanish for the Glastonbury Public Schools in 1981 I worked in three schools daily,” writes Tim Alstrum. “My favorite principal and school was Hopewell because of Dick Lakin and his gentle and calm manner of dealing with children and staff. His example made Hopewell a warm, caring and fun school to work at. I worked for Richard Lakin from 1981 to 1984 when he and his family left Glastonbury to live in Israel. That environment that Dick Lakin had created and nurtured was a learning experience for a new teacher. After over 34 years in education I am at the last stage of my career. I am glad my path and Dick Lakin’s path came together. He was an inspiring man. May his legacy of bringing peace and love survive! Rest in Peace, Dick.”

A grandfather of eight, Lakin underwent multiple surgeries for his injuries, reports NBC News.