The New York Police Department (NYPD) has arrested a 17-year-old boy in connection with the murder of 15-year-old Ghanaian student, Javits Frimpong, who was shot while walking to school in the Bronx, New York.
The suspect was arrested by detectives on Wednesday, November 11, and charged with murder over the October 29 shooting, according to the police department.
The NYPD announced the development in a statement shared on its social media account, saying the arrest followed investigations into the teenager’s killing.
“Earlier this morning, NYPD detectives arrested a 17-year-old male for the murder of 15-year-old Javits Frimpong on October 29, 2026, in the Bronx. He is being charged with murder,” the department said.
The police added that they would remain committed to bringing those responsible for the teenager’s death to justice.
The suspect’s identity has not been released because he is a minor. Reports by US media also indicate that he faces manslaughter and firearm-related charges.
Frimpong was shot on October 29 while heading to school in the Bronx. He was reportedly attacked near East 171st Street, close to Crotona Park, and later died from his injuries at a hospital.
Investigators had initially been searching for three teenagers believed to have been involved in the shooting. Reports said the suspects were wearing black clothing and blue surgical masks.
The arrest has not ended the investigation, as authorities are still seeking information about the possible involvement of other individuals.
Frimpong’s father, Thomas Frimpong, had previously raised concerns that his son was bullied at school before his death. He said two students had been suspended following an earlier dispute involving his son.
Police have considered bullying, robbery and mistaken identity among possible lines of investigation, but have not publicly established the motive for the shooting.
The killing sparked protests and calls for justice from members of the Ghanaian community, schoolmates and residents of the Bronx.
The family has also received support from civil rights lawyer Ben Crump, who joined relatives and community leaders in demanding accountability and answers over the circumstances surrounding the teenager’s death.
Frimpong had moved from Ghana to the United States about a year before he was killed, according to reports. His death has renewed concerns about youth violence and the safety of students travelling to and from school.
AbdulBasit Saba is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
