A Gentle Soul With An Eye For Hashem’s Creation
With profound sorrow, the Queens Bukharian Jewish community joins in mourning the tragic and untimely murder of Yitzhak Alishayev z”l (Yitzchak ben Mazal)—known legally and occasionally as Igor—who was killed on Shabbos, May 3, during a nature photography trip in Turkey. He was 45 years old.
Born on May 16, 1978, Yitzhak was widely respected for his humility, kindness, and creative spirit. A well-known chef in the Bukharian community, he was also a gifted nature photographer, whose work captured the awe and beauty of creation. His culinary talent brought warmth and tradition to many homes, while his photography reflected a soul deeply attuned to Hashem’s creation.
Yitzhak was a devoted member of the Queens Bukharian community, and formerly served as gabbai at Heichal Moshe (Vorhand Shteibel) on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. He was beloved for his sincerity, quiet strength, and dedication to avodas Hashem.
Shortly after Pesach, Yitzchak traveled to Antalya, Turkey, to photograph the Uçansu Waterfall, located in a remote area. While staying with an acquaintance, Ismail Kara, a tragic altercation occurred on Shabbos. According to Turkish media reports, the two had been drinking together when an argument escalated. Kara, allegedly intoxicated, fatally stabbed Yitzhak in the chest.
Witnesses called Turkey’s 112 Emergency Call Center, and emergency teams were quickly dispatched. Yitzchak was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. His body was taken to the Antalya Forensic Medicine Institute, where it was confirmed he had died from stab wounds. Kara has been arrested and remains in custody, charged with intentional homicide.
As of press time, Yitzhak’s body remains in Turkey. Misaskim is working tirelessly to ensure full kavod hameis and arrange for his return to New York for halachic internment. Funeral and k’vurah details will be shared once finalized.
Yitzhak’s love for nature took him across continents. His recent photography expeditions included:
Kilimanjaro (Machame Route), Tanzania – June 2024
Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, India – July 2024
Rajaji Tiger Reserve, India – January 2025
These journeys were Yitzhak’s spiritual quests. Each image he captured was a reflection of the Creator’s majesty, seen through the lens of the faith he cherished so dearly.
Yitzhak lived simply, but with immense purpose. Through food, prayer, friendship, and photography, he elevated the ordinary. His loss leaves a deep void in the hearts of family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched.
Yehi Zichro Baruch. May the neshamah of Yitzhak ben Mazal have an aliyah.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
