Date of Birth: 19.12.1993
Place of residence: Katif
Place and date of death: Shot by Arab terrorists on the Kissufim road, 2.5.2004
Place of burial: Ashkelon cemetery
Age at time of death: 10
Survived by: her father
Hila Esther, was born in Ashkelon, to Tali and David Hatuel. She was their eldest child, and following her were born Hadar Simcha, Roni Sarah and Merav Rachel. She was raised in the community of Katif in Gush Katif, and educated at the Atzmona elementary school for girls. Hila had a great natural curiosity which made her question, discover, and try to find things out, and understand and learn. She was a pretty girl, creative and mature for her age, full of life and always smiling. She showed her gratitude for small favors, and didn’t think ill of others. Her sensitive nature enabled her to make peace among her friends, who loved her dearly.
On Sunday, the 2nd of May, 2004, in the early noon, Tali Hatuel and her four daughters drove in the family car on their way from Gush Katif to the center of the country to take part in a demonstration against the Disengagement Plan, which was being voted on that day in a Likud referendum. As they exited Gush Katif, two Arab terrorists opened fire at the car. After Tali lost control of the wheel and the car turned over, the terrorists approached the vehicle and shot Tali and her four daughters to death.
Hila was 10 years old at the time of her death. She was buried in the Ashkelon cemetery next to her mother and three sisters.
In a booklet published in the Hatuel’s memory by the Gush Katif regional council and the Atzmona school where 3 of the girls learned, it was written about her:
“Hila was enveloped in light; modest and shy…the classrooms misses you. Your empty seat cries out for you. But know, Hila, that your place is etched in our hearts. We’ve tried, since you left us, to promote your plans and imitate your virtues, and feel that you are still with us. Your special sensitivity, your bright face, manners, gratefulness, endurance even when things were hard…”.
