NYPD: About 30% of shooting victims in the Bronx are under 18

The shooting death of a 16-year-old teenager in the Bronx this week once again raises the urgent question of strategies to combat juvenile delinquency, NYPD informs.

Despite the fact that general statistics indicate a decrease in the number of shooting victims in the area by almost 20% compared to last year, a more detailed analysis shows an alarming trend: about 30% of victims are under the age of 18. This is evidenced by the police data.

The latest victim of the tragic incident was Evette Jeffrey, who, according to law enforcement agencies, was fatally wounded by a stray bullet in the Morrisania area on Monday. The alleged culprit is a 14–year-old teenager who came into conflict with another group.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and will make every effort to ensure justice in this case," said Detective Joseph Kenny, head of the New York Police Department.

The suspect has been charged, including two counts of second-degree murder.

Yanely Henriquez, founder of the Angellyh Yambo Foundation, is personally familiar with the grief that Jeffrey's family is going through. Her own daughter, Angellyh Yambo, also 16, died in 2022 after being the victim of a shooting on her way home from school.

Henriques highlights the growing availability of guns to young people and calls for immediate action to prevent further tragedies. The Angellyh Yambo Foundation strives to create a safe space for children through social programs, but needs support.

Henriques is confident that tragedies can be prevented by strengthening security measures, investing in patrols, security and the installation of metal detectors. 
According to the NYPD, 1,600 firearms have been seized from the streets of the city this year.