President Trump paused a pro-police event on Long Island Friday to embrace Migdalia Martinez, the mother of 12-year-old Jacob Freytes, who was fatally shot by a stray bullet in the Bronx in July. Trump promised a tougher stance on crime, referencing the boy's death as an example of the need for increased public safety.
Jacob Freytes was reportedly cycling to a bodega to buy a ball when he was struck and killed. His father is a retired NYPD detective. Trump described Martinez and her ex-husband, retired NYPD Sergeant Jesus Freytes, as "incredible people" and stated, "We're going after them. There are sick people."
Migdalia Martinez expressed that the encounter made her feel the country was "heading in the right direction" and that it was "good to know that he cares." She conveyed a desire for America to be safe again, emphasizing her fear for her other children. Martinez also voiced hope for a future bill named after her son that would mandate life sentences without parole for criminals convicted of recklessly or intentionally killing children.
Trump linked the incident to policies in New York, specifically mentioning "Kathy Hochul's New York" and bail reform, which Martinez had previously criticized for favoring criminals over victims. The suspect, identified as 45-year-old William Ferrer, reportedly has a criminal record dating back to 1999, with multiple prior arrests for offenses including drug possession and drunk driving.
The event in Nassau County also featured Trump endorsing gubernatorial hopeful Bruce Blakeman and praising law enforcement for reducing crime rates. "We have some of the greatest police officers in the world in this room... They've gotten dangerous offenders off our streets and they've put savage criminals behind bars and they're making America safe again," Trump told the attendees.