An Israeli mayor killed in unexpected Hamas strikes while visiting Indianapolis

Indianapolis, Indiana – Terrorists from Hamas murdered Ophir Lipstein on Saturday in his residence.

Sha’ar Hanegev was the town Lipstein served as mayor of. He went to Indianapolis in August and had meetings with the city’s Jewish community, legislators, and Indiana Governor Holcomb.

“Hamas terrorists entered his home and to protect his home, he was killed. So, this is very personal to us. As a matter of fact, we received a note from the governor, who was friends with him,” said Helen Kurlander Goldstein.

Goldstein is the president of the Jewish Federation of Indianapolis’ board of directors. Her son managed to flee the attacks and is currently in Israel.

“My son lives in Tel Aviv. Tonight, he’s spending the night in a bomb shelter. He moved from Tel Aviv further inland because of the amount of rocket attacks that have occurred that are taking place in Tel Aviv,” said Goldstein.

Regardless of origin, Kurlander Goldstein is requesting that all Hoosiers show solidarity for Israel on Sunday by offering prayers at their individual places of worship.

“I think everyone here is in shock. This happened so quickly. The Israelis weren’t prepared. Of course, we weren’t prepared.”

Donations can be sent at Jewishindianapolis.org for the attack victims.