Vigil in Culver City for six Israeli hostages killed by Hamas

A vigil took place in Culver City on Sunday evening following the announcement from Israeli authorities regarding the deaths of six hostages, including 23-year-old Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was born in California. The vigil was organized at a memorial exhibit that commemorates the tragic events of the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, particularly focusing on the Nova music festival where many of the hostages had been present. Attendees wore tape with the number 331, representing the days since the hostages were taken. Goldberg-Polin's parents, Rachel and Jon, had recently spoken at the Democratic National Convention, sharing their son's story and the harrowing details of the attack. On the day of the festival, Hersh and his friend sought refuge in a bomb shelter while militants attacked, resulting in the death of his friend and many others. The parents have been active in raising awareness about the plight of hostages since their son's abduction. Israeli officials confirmed that the bodies of the six hostages were discovered in a tunnel in Rafah, Gaza, shortly before military forces arrived for a rescue operation. The other victims included Ori Danino, Eden Yerushalmi, Almog Sarusi, Alexander Lobanov, and Carmel Gat, with all six reportedly killed just before the rescue attempt. The Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas resulted in significant casualties, with over 1,200 Israelis killed, including at least 42 Americans. The vigil served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing tragedy and the impact of the violence on families and communities, emphasizing the need for solidarity and remembrance in the face of such loss.