Javits Frimpong, 15: remembering a son of Ghana

On Thursday, 29 October 2026, Javits Frimpong left home in the Bronx, New York, to walk to school. He never arrived. He was shot near Crotona Park and died later that day in the hospital. He was only 15 years old.

Just one year earlier, Javits had come from Ghana to live with his father, Thomas, a taxi driver in New York. His mother stayed in Ghana. He was a quiet boy who did well at school and dreamed of becoming a doctor.

“My son was precious, very clever,” his father told reporters.

We did not know Javits personally. But we know his story, because it is the story of so many of our families: a child who crosses the ocean for a better education, and parents who work hard so that he can have it. His loss belongs to all of us.

To his father, his mother in Ghana and the whole family: our hearts are with you. Mo'ndue! May God give you strength.

How you can help:

Leave a condolence message below. We will make sure the family can read them.
If you have information, call NYPD Crime Stoppers: 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).
Family fundraiser link: GoFundMe Support (gofundme.com)

The police investigation is ongoing. Reports: ABC7 (abc7chicago.com) · Gothamist (gothamist.com)

Damirifa due, Javits. Rest well, son of Ghana.

Picture: illustration by GhanaChild.