A 15-year-old Ghanaian boy, Javits Frimpong, was shot and killed in the Bronx, New York, on Thursday, 29 October 2026, in an attack that has left his family devastated and raised fresh questions about bullying at his school.
Police were called to the Claremont section of the Bronx shortly before 9:30 a.m., where Javits was found with a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Reports say he was taken to St. Barnabas Hospital in a police vehicle, where he later died. He had reportedly been walking to school at the time.
His father, Thomas Frimpong, says his son had complained of repeated bullying and believes it may have played a role in the shooting. Police have not confirmed any link and have not announced a motive.
What Happened on the Morning of the Shooting
Reports place the shooting near East 171st Street, close to Crotona Park and a short distance from the family’s home. Some outlets cite slightly different cross streets, and police have not clarified the exact spot publicly.
Mr Frimpong, who drives a taxi in New York, said he woke his son that morning before leaving home. He said Javits opened the door for him as he left. Later, the school reportedly told him Javits had not arrived, and he was then told his son had been shot.
Police Search for Teenage Suspects
No arrests had been reported as of 30 October. Police are reportedly looking for two to three teenagers seen running from the area in dark clothing, with some wearing surgical masks. Surveillance footage obtained by local media reportedly shows a person in a black hoodie, black sweatpants and a mask fleeing the scene.
Police have not said whether Javits was specifically targeted. Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1-800-577-TIPS.
Father Speaks About Alleged Bullying
According to Mr Frimpong, the principal of DreamYard Preparatory School called him about three days before the shooting to say two students who had been bothering Javits were suspended for a week after a confrontation. He says the principal told him Javits was not at fault and had been defending himself.
The father also says his son told him that one of the boys bullied him at lunchtime and that he had reported it several times. These are the father’s accounts and have not been independently confirmed. At the time of the reports, the school and the New York City Department of Education had not publicly answered questions about the bullying claims.
Mr Frimpong has appealed to those responsible to turn themselves in to the police.
Family Mourns a Quiet Boy
Javits moved from Ghana to New York about a year ago to live with his father, who hoped the move would give him a better life. His mother remains in Ghana and is struggling to accept the news, according to the father, who said she would not believe it until she sees his body.
Mr Frimpong described his son as a quiet boy who spent much of his time in his room. Relatives quoted in one report said he was intelligent and wanted to become a doctor.
Ghana Government Responds
According to one report, the Ghanaian government has offered condolences and said its diplomatic representatives in New York are working with American authorities.
The investigation is ongoing, and police have not said whether the killing is connected to events at the school. Until investigators release more information, the bullying claims remain the family’s account rather than an established finding. Readers with information can contact police anonymously through Crime Stoppers, and further details are expected as the case develops.
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