New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced on October 31, 2026, that President Donald Trump had agreed to grant a visa to the mother of Ghanaian teenager Javits Frimpong. The 15-year-old died in the Bronx on October 29, 2026, while reportedly on his way to school. His mother lives in Ghana, prompting calls for her to be allowed to travel to the United States to mourn her son.
Mamdani said he had discussed the situation with Trump and that the President had agreed to facilitate the visa. The mayor stated that Javits Frimpong's mother deserves the opportunity to say goodbye to her son in person, despite the distance between Ghana and the United States. "No parent should have to endure this kind of pain, especially from thousands of miles away," the mayor said in his message.
The teenager's death has attracted reactions from public figures in Ghana and the United States. Ghanaian actress Nadia Buari shared an emotional message, saying that as a mother, she imagined her own child in the teenager's situation. She also expressed sympathy for Javits' mother, describing how painful it was to imagine her receiving the news from Ghana.
Police said three teenage boys were wanted in connection with the incident. No arrests had been made at the time of the report. The city had also deployed mobile trauma support to the affected area. Mamdani had earlier shared a video message expressing sympathy for the family and stating that his administration was working with the New York Police Department (NYPD) to identify those responsible and ensure they were held accountable.
Members of the Ghanaian community in the United States held a candlelight vigil in honour of Javits on October 30, 2026, a day after his death. Mourners gathered around rows of candles arranged on the ground. Some were visibly overcome with emotion as they paid tribute to the 15-year-old. The vigil provided an opportunity for members of the community to remember Javits and express solidarity with his family as they grieved his loss.
Bronx Congressman Ritchie Torres and Adom TV presenter Tima Kumkum also publicly addressed the incident. Many on social media have also called for justice for the teenager. The White House had not publicly commented on the reported agreement at the time of the report.
The incident has sparked widespread sympathy and calls for justice. Javits Frimpong's mother will be able to travel to the United States to say goodbye to her son. The agreement was made following a telephone conversation between Mamdani and Trump.
Key points
- US President Donald Trump agreed to grant a visa to Javits Frimpong's mother.
- The 15-year-old Ghanaian boy died in the Bronx on October 29, 2026.
- A candlelight vigil was held in honour of Javits on October 30, 2026.
