A 15-year-old Ghanaian teenager has been shot dead in New York City while walking to school, leaving his family devastated and prompting calls for justice.

The teenager, identified as Javits Badu Nkansah Frimpong, was shot in the abdomen shortly before 9:30am on Thursday, October 29, 2026, near East 171st Street and Crotona Place in the Bronx.

According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), officers responding to reports of gunfire rushed the teenager to St. Barnabas Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Police are searching for three male suspects believed to be between 16 and 18 years old. 

The suspects were reportedly dressed in black clothing and wearing blue surgical masks.

Investigators are yet to establish the motive behind the shooting or make any arrests in connection with the incident.

According to reports, Frimpong’s father Thomas Frimpong, said his son had previously complained about being bullied by fellow students.

He disclosed that two boys had earlier been involved in an altercation with his son and were suspended following the incident.

The father said his son later reported continued harassment during lunch breaks, despite raising concerns about the situation.

However, authorities have not confirmed whether the alleged bullying was connected to the fatal shooting.

Thomas described his son as a quiet and intelligent boy who had relocated from Ghana to the United States about a year ago to live with him.

He also revealed that the teenager aspired to become a doctor, describing his death as an unbearable loss.

“It’s not easy for me. He’s my everything. I’m here with him alone,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has pledged to support the bereaved family and work with American authorities to ensure justice is served.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa also spoke with the grieving father, conveying condolences on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama.

Ghanaian diplomatic officials in New York have also visited the family to offer assistance as investigations continue.

The ministry said it would provide the necessary consular and legal support while following up on the case.

Frimpong’s death has sparked renewed concerns about the safety of young people and gun violence in the United States, with his family left seeking answers over the circumstances that led to the killing.