Ghana's Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York has visited the family of Joseph Owusu, a 24-year-old Ghanaian caregiver who was killed in the Bronx. The visit was led by Deputy Permanent Representative Ben Dotsel Malor and Consul-General Anthony El-Adas, on behalf of Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The mission expressed condolences to the family and pledged support during this difficult time.
Joseph Owusu's death occurred just days after the fatal shooting of 15-year-old Ghanaian Javits Frimpong in the Bronx on October 29, 2026. The two incidents have raised concerns among Ghanaians in New York and relatives in Ghana, with calls for investigations and accountability. Minister Ablakwa expressed shock and sadness over Owusu's death, particularly given its proximity to Frimpong's killing.
According to a statement issued by Ghana's Permanent Mission to the UN, Minister Ablakwa assured the family that the government would work with relevant US authorities and agencies to ensure that the circumstances surrounding Owusu's death were investigated. He emphasized that the government stands with the bereaved family during this difficult time.
Joseph Owusu worked as a caregiver, supporting persons with disabilities, and also served as a chorister at his local Methodist church. His family remembers him as a beloved son and brother, whose death has left relatives and members of his community devastated. His brother, Kwadwo, has called for a thorough and transparent police investigation into the circumstances surrounding Joseph's death.
The family has been informed by police that an autopsy is being conducted as investigations into Owusu's death continue. However, no further details about the circumstances of the incident or the possible cause of death were provided. The police investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the facts surrounding Owusu's death.
Minister Ablakwa's expression of condolences was conveyed via phone during the visit, as he was unable to attend in person. The Ghanaian government's engagement with US authorities aims to ensure that the investigations are conducted thoroughly and that those responsible are brought to justice. The mission's visit to the family was seen as a gesture of solidarity and support.
The incident has sparked an outpouring of sympathy and calls for action to address the growing concerns about the safety and well-being of Ghanaians in New York. The Ghanaian government has pledged to work closely with US authorities to ensure that justice is served and that measures are taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Key points
- Ghana's UN mission visits family of Ghanaian killed in Bronx tragedy, pledges support
- Two Ghanaian nationals killed in Bronx within days, sparking concerns and calls for investigations
- Ghanaian government to engage US authorities to ensure thorough investigation and justice
