Jewish Father Of 7 Found Dead Near Rabbi Nachman’s Grave During Rosh Hashanah, Homicide Probe Opened

Ukrainian authorities are investigating the death of a British Jewish father of seven who was found dead in a forest near the gravesite of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov in Uman during Rosh Hashanah.

The victim, identified as Yitzchak Almekais, 45, had been staying in Uman for the holiday pilgrimage, which drew tens of thousands of Jewish worshippers from Israel and around the world.

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According to initial reports, Hasidim who entered the nearby wooded area found him lying on the ground without a pulse or signs of breathing. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.

Local police have opened an investigation and are examining all possibilities, including a possible homicide. Reports from the scene raised suspicions of foul play, but Ukrainian authorities have not yet officially ruled the death a murder.

Aharon Ben Haroush, who heads United Hatzalah’s Uman branch, said volunteers are working with local authorities to secure the release of Almekais’ body for burial as soon as possible.