A Bronx mother has voiced strong criticism of Mayor Zohran Mamdani, asserting that the city administration has not done enough to combat gang violence in the Mount Eden neighborhood, particularly in the area where 12-year-old Jacob Freytes was killed by a stray bullet.
Miledy Rosario, a mother of four and friend of the Freytes family, expressed her frustration following the Saturday shooting near Elliott Place and Grand Concourse. Jacob Freytes was struck by a bullet while riding a bicycle he had received just the day before as a gift from Rosario. He was on his way to a local bodega at the time of the incident.
"I feel that the mayor that’s celebrating in the parade right now should take better care of this block, because there’s a lot of gang members," Rosario stated, referencing Mamdani's participation in a Dominican parade on Sunday. "He’s talking about stopping violence. But it is still continuing. And so if they don’t clean that block there, we’re gonna continue to see the same thing."
Rosario also noted a perceived decrease in police presence on the corner where the shooting occurred, contrasting it with previous times when officers were stationed there. Jacob Freytes was the son of a retired NYPD sergeant.
Mayor Mamdani released a statement expressing his condolences, stating, "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." He also conveyed gratitude to hospital staff and the NYPD for their efforts in apprehending those responsible.
William Ferrer, 45, was arrested on Sunday in connection with the shooting. Sources indicate Ferrer has a criminal record dating back to 1999, with prior arrests for drug possession, drunken driving, and possession of stolen property.
The Mount Eden area is reportedly known territory for the Trinitarios and Sev Side Pinni street gangs, and police are investigating potential gang involvement in the shooting. The incident has left Jacob's young friends, including Rosario's daughter, traumatized.
Rosario recalled Jacob's joy upon receiving the bicycle, noting his gratitude and excitement. "He was really happy," she said. "I’m a mom of four kids, and I’m really scared. This kid was just running around on a bicycle, and got shot. Jacob didn’t deserve this."