BRONX, New York — Flowers, candles, balloons, handwritten notes, and stuffed animals continue to surround a growing memorial honoring Jacob Freytes, the 12-year-old boy who l0st h1s l1f3 after being struck by a str4y bull3t outside Wanda Deli Grocery on Elliot Place in the Mount Eden neighborhood of the Bronx.

Residents, classmates, friends, and family members have gathered throughout the week to remember the young boy and support those closest to him.

According to the New York City Police Department (NYPD), Jacob Freytes had gone to the neighborhood bodega to buy a ball when an altercation between adults escalated into g0nf1r3.

Investigators said Jacob was not involved in the dispute and was h1t by a str4y bull3t before running inside the store seeking help. He was transported to NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, where he later p4ss3d 4w4y.

Authorities have identified William Ferrer, 45, as the primary suspect in the case. Prosecutors have filed ch4rg3s including s3c0nd-d3gr33 murd3r, f1rst-d3gr33 m4nsl4ught3r, 4tt3mpt3d murd3r, multiple counts of 4ss4ult, and cr1m1n4l p0ss3ss10n 0f 4 w34p0n.

Investigators continue reviewing surveillance video, forensic evidence, and witness statements as the c4s3 moves through the judicial process.

Police also confirmed that two additional men, ages 25 and 34, were sh0t during the same exchange of g0nf1r3. Both surv1v3d and remain in stable condition.

Detectives have not announced any additional arrests and continue asking anyone with information to cooperate with the investigation.

Jacob Freytes was the son of retired NYPD Detective Sgt. Jesus Freytes. Family members described him as a caring, respectful, and energetic child who enjoyed riding his bicycle and spending time with friends.

Throughout the memorial, mourners left messages expressing their love for Jacob while calling for an end to gvn v10l3nc3 affecting neighborhoods across New York City.

As candles continue to burn outside the bodega where the incident occurred, community leaders, neighbors, and local organizations have pledged to keep Jacob Freytes’ memory alive while supporting his family during this difficult time.

They say the young boy’s legacy should inspire stronger efforts to protect children from becoming innocent v1ct1ms of senseless v10l3nc3.