Ya'acov Katz

Apr 27, 2002 - Ya'acov Katz, 51, of Adora, was one of four people killed when terrorists dressed in IDF uniforms and combat gear cut through the defensive perimeter fence and entered the community of Adora. The terrorists entered several homes, firing on people in their bedrooms. The PFLP claimed responsibility for the attack.

The attack took place at about 9 AM on Saturday morning in the hilltop community of Adora, northwest of Hebron. At least two terrorists, wearing IDF uniforms and flak jackets, armed with Kalashnikov and M-16 assault rifles, infiltrated the community. They entered several homes, killing Katrina Greenberg, asleep in her bedroom, and 5-year-old Danielle Shefi, who was playing in her parents' bedroom, and injuring seven others. Arik Becker and Ya'acov Katz were killed as they and others from the community's response team exchanged fire with the terrorists.

Ya'acov Katz immigrated to Israel 13 years ago from Tadjikstan, where he had founded a large Zionist club and taught Hebrew. An electronic engineer by profession, Ya'acov was one of the founders of the technological center in Kiryat Arba.

Ya'acov, who was divorced (his ex-wife resides in the US), lived with his son Yehuda (8) in Adora. He was at the synagogue when the shooting began. A member of the Adora security teamm, he ran to his home, located near the Shefi and Greenberg homes, and was gunned down by the terrorists.

Ya'acov Katz is survived by two daughters and a son.