Bronx Community Holds Vigil for 15-Year-Old Javits Frimpong, Shot on His Way to School

One week after 15-year-old Javits Frimpong was shot near East 171st Street and Crotona Place in the Bronx while on his way to school, the community returned to the same intersection to hold a vigil in his memory. Frimpong, who had immigrated from Ghana, later died at a hospital. Classmates, clergy, and members of the Ghanaian community attended, releasing balloons and calling for justice.

His teacher, Ms. K., remembered him warmly. "He was a sweet boy. Smart, very respectful, never bothered anyone," she said. A classmate also spoke, telling Frimpong: "You came into this world with a future of possibilities, but your journey ended far too soon."

A witness who stayed by Frimpong's side in his final hours reflected on the experience. "I'm glad somebody was there to make him feel comfortable. And to let him know that he was not alone," the witness said.

The crowd chanted "No justice. No peace," and one speaker offered a farewell: "Javits, you ran for your life, run, run, run with God. Just keep running until we get it right." Police have not announced any arrests.