The mother of 15-year-old Ghanaian teenager Javits Badu Nkansah Frimpong, who was fatally shot in the Bronx, New York, has appealed for justice following the tragic death of her son.
Doris Adu Gyamfi made the emotional appeal at the Accra International Airport on Wednesday morning as she prepared to travel to New York to mourn her son and support arrangements following his death.
“I want justice for my son, that’s all,” she told journalists, expressing her desire to see those responsible for the teenager’s killing brought to justice.
Her appeal comes amid growing tributes from residents of the Bronx and members of the African diaspora, who have continued to honour the life of the young Ghanaian.
Community Holds Vigil for Slain Ghanaian Teenager
A candlelight vigil was organised in memory of Javits, attracting Americans, members of the Ghanaian community and other people from the African diaspora.
Participants gathered to mourn the teenager, with some wearing black T-shirts carrying the message “Stop the Bullying.” Mothers, religious leaders and other community members also offered prayers and demanded justice for the deceased.
A memorial site has been established near East 170th Street, close to Crotona Park, where Javits collapsed after sustaining a gunshot wound to his stomach.
According to ABC7NY’s Eyewitness News, several people have visited the location to pay their respects. Some parents have brought their children to the memorial to explain the tragic incident, while others have left handwritten messages, posters and candles in honour of the teenager.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) has subsequently installed barricades around the memorial and restricted access to sections of the sidewalk as tributes continue to grow.
Eyewitness Recounts Final Moments After Shooting
An eyewitness who attempted to save Javits has shared an account of his efforts to help the teenager after the shooting.
The witness reportedly applied pressure to the victim’s stomach wound and called on people nearby to assist. However, he claimed that his pleas for help were ignored by some passersby.
A major memorial service is expected to take place on Thursday, with authorities anticipating the closure of the street to accommodate mourners and other participants.
NYPD Searches for Three Teenage Suspects
Meanwhile, the New York Police Department is continuing investigations into the fatal shooting, with officers searching for three teenage suspects believed to be connected to the incident.
Reports indicate that CCTV footage captured one of the suspects fleeing the scene. The individual was reportedly wearing a black hoodie, with a red scarf underneath and wrapped around the head.
Authorities are yet to bring the suspects into custody as investigations continue.
Mother Reveals Son’s Dream of Becoming a Doctor
Beyond the tragic circumstances surrounding his death, Javits’ mother has been left heartbroken by the loss of a son whose future held enormous promise.
Doris Adu Gyamfi reportedly hoped that her son would grow up to become a medical doctor and build a successful future.
His death has sparked renewed conversations about youth violence, bullying, gun violence and public safety in New York, while members of the Ghanaian community continue to demand accountability and justice for the 15-year-old.
The family and supporters are now hoping that the ongoing police investigation will lead to the arrest of those responsible for the killing.
Source: newsthemegh.com