Youth Killed in Hamas Massacre during Music Festival in Israel

A young Israeli-German woman, Shani Louk, tragically lost her life during the horrific Hamas massacre and mass kidnapping rampage on 7 October. The initial belief that Louk had been kidnapped alive during the attack has been shattered, as her family confirmed her untimely death. The news of her demise came after the discovery of human remains that indicated injuries incompatible with survival.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Louk’s sister, Adi, announced the devastating news: “It is with great sadness that we announce the death of my sister, Shani Nicole Z.L., who was on October 7, 2023, at the party massacre in Re’im.” The Israeli Foreign Ministry also expressed deep sorrow, acknowledging the “unfathomable horrors” Louk had experienced.

Footage from the day of the attack showed Louk lying motionless in the back of a vehicle after being seized and brought into Gaza, semi-naked and apparently unconscious. Despite initial hopes that she might be alive and held in a hospital in Gaza, Louk’s mother, Ricarda, had to face the grim reality that her daughter was no longer with them.

According to German and Israeli media reports, Louk’s family received an official notice from the Israel Defence Forces and Zaka, a voluntary emergency response organization, confirming the discovery of a bone from the base of Louk’s skull. DNA testing confirmed it matched Louk’s DNA, leading doctors to determine that she could not have survived without the bone, and thus concluding her death. This determination was made by the Israeli National Institute of Forensic Medicine.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who was on an official visit to Africa, expressed his deep anguish upon hearing the news. He stated, “For me, this news is terrible. This shows all the barbarism that lies behind Hamas,” highlighting the need to hold the Palestinian militant group accountable for their actions.

Shani Louk was attending the Supernova music festival near Re’im when Hamas terrorists launched their assault. Prior to the massacre, a video captured Louk, a talented tattoo artist, dancing with friends, illustrating the vibrant spirit she embodied.

Germany’s Der Spiegel had reported two weeks ago that Louk’s aunt’s German partner had been informed that she was alive and receiving treatment for injuries at a hospital in Beit Lahia, Gaza. However, this turned out to be a false hope.

The attack on the festival, which resulted in the deaths of at least 260 people, marked the deadliest assault on Israel in decades. For hours, festivalgoers were left hiding or attempting to escape as security forces struggled to reach them amidst the chaos.