Career Felon Charged in Killing of 12-Year-Old Boy in Bronx
A 45-year-old career criminal with a criminal record spanning nearly three decades has been charged with murder in the fatal shooting of 12-year-old Jacob Freytes, who was struck by a stray bullet while riding his bicycle to a bodega in the Bronx. The tragedy has reignited debate over gun violence and recidivism in New York City.
The Incident
Jacob Freytes, the son of retired NYPD Detective Sergeant Jesus Freytes, was shot just before 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, in the Mount Eden section of the Bronx. According to ABC News, the boy was riding his bike to Wanda Super Market & Deli at the corner of Walton Avenue and Elliott Place to buy a ball when he became caught in the crossfire of a fight involving at least five people.
William Ferrer, the suspect, was allegedly fighting with the group outside the bodega when he opened fire. Jacob was struck in the shoulder, fell off his bicycle, and ran into the store seeking cover before collapsing. He was pronounced dead at Lincoln Medical Center. Two other men — ages 25 and 34 — were also wounded but suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
The Suspect’s Record
Ferrer’s criminal history spans 27 years, with arrests dating back to 1999 for possession of a forged instrument. The NY Post reported that his rap sheet includes arrests for menacing and criminal contempt in 2001, possession of stolen property in 2004, DWI and marijuana possession in 2009, and drug possession in 2013 — at least a half-dozen arrests in total.
The extensive criminal record has raised questions about how a career felon remained free to commit such a violent act. Community leaders and local officials have pointed to the case as evidence of systemic failures in the criminal justice system.
Arrest and Charges
Ferrer was arrested outside his Bronx home on Sunday, July 26, and was led out of the 44th Precinct stationhouse for a perp walk shortly after 3:40 p.m. He was arraigned on Monday, July 27, at approximately 5:00 p.m. in Bronx Criminal Court, where he pleaded not guilty to charges including second-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter, second-degree attempted murder, first- and second-degree assault, and criminal possession of a weapon. The judge ordered him held without bail, and his next court appearance is scheduled for Friday, July 31.
According to NY1 / Spectrum News, Ferrer’s attorney, Raymond Elvis Gazer, stated: “Mr. Ferrer, like all Americans, enjoys the presumption of innocence, and looks forward to this matter playing itself out in a court of law rather than the court of public opinion.”
Official Reactions
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the killing as “senseless gun violence” in a social media post, adding, “No arrest can ever ease the pain of this unimaginable loss, but the NYPD will continue to do everything in our power to see justice for Jacob.”
Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed grief over the tragedy, writing: “Our children should be able to ride their bikes on a nice summer day in their neighborhood without fear of being shot. We cannot accept this violence as normal.”
Fernando Mateo, a spokesperson for the United Bodegas of America, voiced frustration at the lack of stronger deterrence, calling for mandatory minimum sentences of three to five years for illegal gun possession. “We are just tired of having these press conferences speaking about gun violence,” Mateo said, as reported by NBC New York.
Community Impact
The Mount Eden neighborhood has been left reeling. A memorial for Jacob has grown at the scene of the shooting, with flowers, candles, and a framed photo. Family friend Jasmine Rosario described Jacob as “an innocent little kid” who “wasn’t from the streets.” Neighbor Martha Rosa said, “It’s just unthinkable. He’s just riding his bike like any other child.”
The NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association confirmed Jacob’s identity as the son of retired Detective Sergeant Jesus Freytes, who once served in the same 44th Precinct that investigated his son’s killing.
Broader Implications
Law enforcement sources have indicated the shooting may be gang-related, though the motive remains under investigation. The case has amplified calls for stronger gun control measures and raised uncomfortable questions about recidivism: how a man with Ferrer’s extensive criminal history remained on the streets and able to access an illegal firearm.
For the family of Jacob Freytes, no answers can undo the loss. As Commissioner Tisch noted, the legal process can pursue justice, but it cannot restore what was taken on a summer afternoon in the Bronx.