Teen sues gay center for shooting
A 15-year old victim of the shooting that occurred at a gay community center in Tel Aviv is suing the organization that runs the center for $4 million.
Yonatan Buks sustained shots to the lower extremities of his body, which caused internal damage. He is currently undergoing rehabilitation and finds it difficult to speak. Police are still searching for the shooter, who killed two teens in the attack.
Leaders of the Aguda for LGBT rights in Israel told Ynet Tuesday they had difficulty understanding why Buks had decided to sue them.
"We understand Yonatan and his pain. It is not easy to listen to the claim, but I don’t suppose he is motivated by greed," said a member of the organization. "I believe he really fears the future and feels he needs money."
Shaul Gannon, who manages the gay youth center, says the organization lacks the funds to appease Buks. "Yonatan is very dear to us, and we understand the suit is part of the family’s way of coping. This boy was abandoned by the state and needs help. I can only wish him health and love from the bottom of my heart," said Gannon.
Attorney Eitan Peleg, who represents Buks, believes other victims will soon follow suit. "I am sure (the gay center) was full of good intentions, but when you take upon yourself such a huge responsibility, replace the parents, and take a child through an activity that holds danger it is your duty to get the parents’ approval," he said.