A cloud of mourning fell over Zichron Yaakov on Monday night when the word spread regarding the mistaken fire incident along the Gaza border that claimed the life of IDF Tank Corps soldier Sergeant Gavriel Chepitch, 21.

Chepitch was a member of the 77th Armored Battalion operating along the central area of the Gaza border, not far from Kissufim. His crew spotted three Gazans crossing into Israel, prompting them to alert commanders who sent a Golani force to the area. The Golani soldiers fired at the tank corps crew believing they were the terrorists, resulting in the tragic death.

Family members explain that Gavriel and a number of friends were planning a trip to Tiveria, a trip that have been speaking about for a long time, and they were set to go in a number of days.

After receiving the news, the soldier’s father Brancho, his mother Bat-Ami and sister Inbal refused to speak with reporters. His brother Adiel however wished to give a statement. “Gavri was simply a marvelous human being, always happy, a real chevraman. He was a true patriot and truly loved the country. We are still trying to digest the horrific news”.

The Chepitch family is among the veterans of the community, well-known to many. The funeral will take place today, Tuesday, at 3:00pm in the Zichron Yaakov Military Cemetery.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)