British Jewish pilgrim found dead in Uman during Rosh Hashanah

United Hatzalah representatives at the scene in Uman where the Jewish pilgrim’s body was found. Photo: United Hatzalah

On September 14, 2026, Ukrainian police found the body of a 45-year-old British Jewish man in a forest near Uman with signs of a violent death, The Jerusalem Post reports.

Police discovered the remains of the father of seven during the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah. Representatives of the local Jewish community said they suspect he was murdered, although Ukrainian law enforcement authorities have not yet officially confirmed that his death was the result of a crime.

The international division of ZAKA, headed by Baruch Nidam, is working to secure the release of the body and arrange its transport for burial. “United Hatzalah representatives in Uman are working with the authorities to secure the release of his body for burial as soon as possible,” said Aaron Ben Harush, deputy head of the organization’s local branch.

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the pilgrim’s death.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that a new National Guard company had been established in Uman to provide security for Hasidic pilgrims.

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