William Ferrer, 45, appeared in Bronx Criminal Court Friday, facing charges including second-degree murder in the death of 12-year-old Jacob Freytes. Ferrer, who has multiple prior arrests, did not appear in person, with his attorney waiving his appearance.
Freytes, the son of retired NYPD Detective Sergeant Jesus Freytes, was caught in the crossfire of a shooting last Saturday in the Mount Eden section of the Bronx. Prosecutors stated that Freytes was struck in the chest by a bullet while biking to a local deli to buy a ball. He later died from his injuries at a Bronx hospital. Two other men were injured in the incident.
Ferrer was allegedly attempting to resolve a dispute for his brother when he opened fire, according to law-enforcement sources. He has been charged with murder, attempted murder, manslaughter, assault, and criminal possession of a weapon. If convicted of the top charge, he could face life in prison.
The victim's family, including his mother Migdalia Martinez and father Jesus Freytes, were present in the courtroom for the hearing. Martinez expressed concerns about rising crime in the city, stating that she believes the system favors criminals over victims and that laws are no longer sufficiently tough.
Prosecutors are currently presenting the case to a grand jury to secure an indictment. Bronx Criminal Court Judge Joseph Sorrentino ordered Ferrer to remain remanded at Rikers Island until his next court appearance on September 17. The case remains under active investigation.