On November 29th 2010, Moshe Berkowitz Z”L, a very special and important member of our community, was tragically struck and killed by a drunk driver. Moshe was only 25 years old. He was a dear friend to many, a treasured brother and son, and a beloved teacher to his students. His sudden and untimely passing left a huge hole in the hearts of those who knew him.

In his day to day life he was always smiling, always trying to help others, and always striving to be a better person. He wasn’t born into a privileged family and had to struggle to overcome many obstacles in his life. But overcome them he did, and he was an inspiration to his friends and students alike. Moshe felt a sense of gratitude to Yeshivas Ohr Yitzchok where he was a student. He decided to give back by teaching in that same school. His students said they felt very close to their teacher. He understood them and encouraged them to make something of themselves. In his spare time, he was an NCSY advisor and inspired other teens and brought them closer to their roots. Moshe wanted to give back to the community.

Moshe was also a true friend to many. He was always there, always willing and happy to do favors for others, always giving advice. He was a real role model for his peers – showing them you can have a good time and still be a responsible adult. It is ironic and unfortunate that his life ended so soon due to someone else’s negligence and stupidity. Moshe’s killer got drunk, got behind the wheel of a car, and drove until he struck Moshe’s car, killing him instantly. An innocent life was lost and many lives were affected by this tragedy.

The friends and family of Moshe Berkowitz Z”L strongly support the District Attorney’s Office in bringing this case to trial in hopes of putting his killer behind bars. His trial is set to begin on Monday, January 28th, 2013.

(YWN Desk – NYC)