Cardi B, Fat Joe, Michael Blackson, and other celebrities are speaking out following the fatal shooting of 15-year-old Bronx student Javits Frimpong. The Ghanaian teenager was killed while walking to school in New York City, sparking renewed conversations about bullying, youth violence, and parental responsibility.
Frimpong had moved from Ghana to the United States approximately one year before his death. His father, Thomas Frimpong, previously revealed that his son had complained about being bullied at school.
The teenager’s death has prompted reactions from public figures who are calling attention to the challenges immigrant children face and the need for stronger intervention against bullying.
Cardi B speaks out about bullying in New York schools
Cardi B addressed Frimpong’s death in a social media video, sharing concerns about raising children in New York City.
The Bronx-born rapper explained that her experiences growing up in the city influenced her concerns about sending children to public schools in the area.
She described bullying as a problem that can begin during elementary school. She also challenged the belief that children can avoid harassment simply by minding their own business.
Cardi explained that children who experience repeated bullying may seek protection by joining groups or gangs. She connected the experience to her own childhood and urged parents to teach their children not to bully others.
The rapper also rejected discussions that framed bullying as a problem affecting only one racial or cultural group. She stressed that children arriving from other countries can also become targets of harassment.
Michael Blackson plans to help immigrant students
Comedian Michael Blackson also responded to the tragedy, drawing connections between Frimpong’s experience and his own childhood.
Blackson revealed plans to make more appearances at high schools to speak with students about bullying, particularly the challenges faced by children who move to the United States from other countries.
He explained that he experienced bullying after moving to New Jersey before eventually relocating to Philadelphia.
According to Blackson, his academic performance and African background contributed to some of the harassment he experienced. He also recalled being the only African student at his school.
The comedian wants to use his platform to help immigrant students understand how to navigate bullying, seek assistance, and adjust to new environments.
His proposed school visits would give students an opportunity to discuss their experiences and learn where to find support.
Fat Joe calls for peace and stronger youth support
Rapper Fat Joe also addressed Frimpong’s death while participating in a community food distribution effort with the Food Bank For New York City.
The Bronx rapper expressed sadness over the teenager’s killing and highlighted concerns about violence affecting young people in the city.
He also discussed his efforts to support communities through his organization, the Mental Wealth Alliance.
Fat Joe explained that he advocates for social-emotional learning in schools from kindergarten through 12th grade.
He believes students should learn emotional regulation, empathy, and how to build healthy relationships with others.
The rapper also emphasized the importance of giving young people guidance and alternative ways to handle disagreements.
His comments reflected a broader concern about the role schools, families, and communities play in preventing violence.
The Breakfast Club discusses parental responsibility
The Breakfast Club hosts also examined the circumstances surrounding Frimpong’s death during their broadcast.
The conversation focused on the need for stronger adult supervision at home, in schools, and within neighborhoods.
The hosts emphasized that teachers should intervene when they witness bullying. They also discussed how parents must remain involved in their children’s lives and understand their friendships and activities.
The discussion highlighted the importance of addressing harmful behavior before it escalates into more serious situations.
What happened to 15-year-old Javits Frimpong?
Frimpong was fatally shot on October 29, 2026, while walking to school in the Bronx. Police said he was shot in the abdomen near East 171st Street and Crotona Place.
He was taken to St. Barnabas Hospital, where he later died.
His father, Thomas, previously said his son had reported being bullied at school. He also said two students had recently been suspended following bullying incidents involving his son.
However, authorities have not confirmed that bullying was connected to the shooting. The motive remains under investigation.
As of November 2, police had not announced any arrests. Investigators were searching for three teenagers believed to be connected to the shooting.
Frimpong’s death has left his family and community mourning a young life cut short. The reactions from Cardi B, Fat Joe, Michael Blackson, and other public figures have also brought renewed attention to bullying prevention, school safety, and the responsibility adults share in protecting children.
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