Yorktown to Hold Candlelight Vigil for Anniversary of Terror Attack in Israel

October 4, 2024 – The Town of Yorktown will host a candlelight vigil on Monday to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the terror attacks in Israel.

The event starts at 6 pm outside Town Hall to remember the victims of a Hamas assault on October 7, 2023, that targeted Israeli civilians in a series of deadly attacks, including massacres, abductions, and rocket fire. More than 1,200 Israelis were killed, and Hamas continues to hold hostages kidnapped on that day. An estimated 43,000 people have died in the war ignited by the October 7 terror attack.

“This vigil is an opportunity for our community to come together in solidarity with the victims of terrorism and to reflect on the enduring need for peace, justice, and coexistence,” said Yorktown Supervisor Ed Lachterman. “We stand with the survivors and pray for a future where hostages are released, and people of all backgrounds can live together without fear.”

The vigil follows a visit to Yorktown’s community center on September 30 by Atir Vinnikov, a survivor of the Nova music festival, who recounted his harrowing escape from the attack on the festival with the help of a Bedouin rescuer. Vinnikov’s story highlighted the shared humanity that transcended the violence of the day and the resilience of the Israeli people.

All community members are invited to attend the vigil and join in remembering the lives lost and in praying for lasting peace.