“Roei was murdered on October 7 and died yesterday. I have no words, and it will take time to find them. I hope these two kids are hugging and smiling right now, hearts pressed together again.”

The Nova Community Foundation, which supports survivors and bereaved families, called Shalev “a pillar of strength” and urged people to recognize the mental toll such trauma leaves behind.

A grim reminder

“Roei’s loss is unimaginable. Remember him for his courage, his support of the community, and the love he carried for his friends and fellow Nova Tribe members during their darkest times,” the foundation said.

This tragedy is a grim reminder that the aftermath of terror doesn’t end when the shooting stops. Survivors live with scars that aren’t visible, and the mental toll can be deadly. Israeli politicians and mental health advocates also responded, calling for greater support for survivors of the October 7 attacks.

Yair Golan, head of the Democrats party, wrote: