The Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, James Gyakye Quayson, has met with Madam Doris Adu Gyamfi, mother of the late Javits Badu Nkansah Frimpong, to convey the Government of Ghana's deepest condolences. Javits, 15, was tragically shot dead in the Bronx, New York, on October 29, 2026. Mr. Quayson reaffirmed the Government's commitment to supporting the bereaved family during this difficult period.
Javits had relocated to the United States about a year ago to join his father, Thomas Frimpong, 60. He was a student of DreamYard Preparatory School and a former student of Adisadel College in Cape Coast. The Deputy Minister reiterated the Ministry's commitment to working through Ghana's diplomatic mission in the United States to engage the relevant American authorities.
The shooting incident occurred near East 171st Street and Crotona Place in the Claremont neighbourhood of the Bronx, while Javits was walking to school. He was rushed to St. Barnabas Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The New York Police Department is searching for three teenage suspects aged 16 to 18, last seen in black clothing and blue surgical masks.
Javits' father has reported that his son had complained about being bullied at school, and two schoolmates had been suspended three days before the shooting. However, the police have not confirmed any link between the alleged bullying and the shooting. The incident has sparked widespread grief and calls for justice.
Hundreds marched in New York chanting "Justice for Javits", while Ghanaian communities both in Ghana and the US have mourned him. Tributes have come from Adisadel College and its old students fraternity (Santaclausians), Sarkodie, rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, and others. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has spoken to Javits' father to convey condolences on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama.
Ghana's Permanent Mission in New York has also visited the family, and Ghana's Ambassador to the US, Emmanuel Victor Smith, has demanded a thorough investigation, including into the reported bullying. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has reportedly said US President Donald Trump agreed to grant an immediate visa to Madam Gyamfi, who lives in Kumasi, to travel to New York for her son's burial.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it will continue to monitor the case with Ghana's Consulate in New York. The Deputy Minister assured Madam Gyamfi of the Government's continued support and solidarity. The incident has highlighted the need for increased support and protection for Ghanaian students abroad.
Key points
- Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister James Gyakye Quayson consoles mother of Bronx shooting victim Javits Frimpong.
- Government of Ghana reaffirms commitment to supporting the bereaved family.
- New York Police Department searches for three teenage suspects in connection with Javits' death.
