United Hatzalah Mourns The Loss Of Volunteer EMT Ronit Elimelech And Her Mother In Beit Shemesh Missile Strike

United Hatzalah announced with profound sorrow the death of volunteer EMT Ronit Elimelech, 45, and her mother, Sarah, who were killed in Sunday’s missile attack from Iran.

Ronit, a devoted emergency medical technician and mother of three, served as a volunteer medic with United Hatzalah for years, responding to medical emergencies throughout her community with dedication and quiet resolve. In addition to her lifesaving work, she volunteered with United Hatzalah’s “Ten Kavod” initiative, assisting and supporting elderly residents, many of whom are Holocaust survivors, with compassion and dignity in their golden years.

Following the air strike on Beit Shemesh in the center of Israel, Ronit was reported missing for several hours. Rescue teams later confirmed that she and her mother were among those killed at the scene. Ronit’s children were injured in the attack and are currently hospitalized, where they are receiving medical treatment.

Eli Beer, President and Founder of United Hatzalah, expressed the organization’s grief: “Our hearts are shattered. Ronit was the embodiment of selflessness and professionalism. She answered the call to help others time and again, day and night. Even in her final moments, as she rushed with her family toward shelter, her medical kit and orange vest were beside her, ready to save lives. That is who she was. Today we have lost not only an extraordinary volunteer but a cherished member of our family. We will stand by her children and her loved ones with unwavering commitment. May her memory be a blessing.”

United Hatzalah’s Psychotrauma and Crisis Response Unit has been deployed to support family members, colleagues, and community residents affected by the tragedy. The organization has also pledged long term assistance to Ronit’s children and immediate family.

Ronit’s loss is felt deeply across the network of more than 8,000 volunteer medics who serve communities across Israel. As the nation continues to endure ongoing attacks, United Hatzalah volunteers remain on the front lines, responding to emergencies while facing the same dangers as the communities they protect.

May Ronit and Sarah’s memory be blessed.