Photo by Krzysztof Hepner on Unsplash
The Bronx bodega shooting claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy after gunfire erupted during a street fight outside a neighborhood convenience store.
Police identified the victim as Jacob Freytes, the son of a retired NYPD sergeant. Authorities said Jacob was standing near his bicycle outside a bodega near Walton Avenue and Elliot Place when violence broke out.
Investigators believe Jacob was not the intended target. Instead, he became an innocent victim after one of the men involved in the fight allegedly pulled out a gun and started shooting.
After being struck, Jacob ran inside the bodega before collapsing. Emergency responders rushed him to a nearby hospital, where doctors later pronounced him dead.
Police arrest suspect in fatal shooting
The New York Police Department announced the arrest of William Ferrer, 45, on Sunday in connection with the shooting.
According to investigators, Ferrer now faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter, attempted murder, and criminal weapons offenses.
Police have not yet released additional details about what led to the confrontation. Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
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Two other victims expected to recover
Authorities said two other men were also struck by gunfire during the incident.
Fortunately, both victims are expected to survive their injuries.
Investigators continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses as they work to determine the full sequence of events. Police have not indicated whether additional arrests are expected.
Community mourns Jacob Freytes
Jacob’s death has left family members, neighbors, and the wider Bronx community grieving the loss of a child whose life ended in an act of violence.
The tragedy has also renewed concerns about gun violence in New York City, particularly when innocent bystanders become victims of shootings linked to disputes.
As the investigation continues, officials are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the NYPD.
Source: NYPD and ABC7 News.
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