David Fremd Murder (2016)
1 Jew was killed in an antisemitic attack in Paysandú, Uruguay on 3/1/2016
The murder of David Fremd in Uruguay, a targeted antisemitic attack, highlighted the global spread of jihadist-inspired antisemitism.
On March 8, 2016, the small Uruguayan town of Paysandú became the unlikely scene of a brutal and fatal attack that shook its residents and the wider Jewish community worldwide. David Fremd, a 55-year-old Jewish businessman known for his efforts to revitalize the Jewish community in Paysandú, was stabbed to death in an incident that brought the global issue of jihadist-inspired antisemitism to this remote corner of the world.
David Fremd was an active member of the local Jewish community, contributing significantly to the revival of Jewish traditions and communal life in Paysandú. He was deeply involved in the rededication of the town's synagogue and the reinstatement of Friday night services, demonstrating his commitment to fostering a vibrant Jewish presence in the area.
The attack occurred when Fremd was ambushed and stabbed in the back 10 times by Carlos Peralta, a Muslim convert, who reportedly shouted "Allahu Akbar" during the assault. The attacker later claimed to have been following "Allah's order," suggesting that the murder was not just a random act of violence but a targeted antisemitic attack. This tragic event highlighted the reach of jihadist ideology and its impact on Jewish communities, even in seemingly peaceful and distant parts of the world.
The response to Fremd's murder was one of widespread condemnation and sorrow, both within Uruguay and internationally. The Jewish community, along with political leaders, mourned the loss of a man who had worked tirelessly to strengthen Jewish life in Paysandú. Fremd's funeral was attended by hundreds, reflecting the high regard in which he was held by both Jews and non-Jews alike.
David Fremd is survived by his wife, Susie, and their three sons, Guillermo, Rafael, and Gabriel. Fremd's murder not only deprived his family of a husband and father but also robbed the Jewish community of Paysandú of a key figure in its revival. His death serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of antisemitism and the need for vigilance and solidarity in combating hate and intolerance.