President Donald Trump stepped off the stage on Friday while making a speech in New York to comfort the family of a 12-year-old boy who was killed by a stray bullet in the Bronx. Trump was speaking to the Nassau County Police Academy when he mentioned Jacob Freytes, a boy who was killed late last month by a stray bullet while sitting on his bike outside a bodega.

Tragic Incident Sparks Call for Action

Before leaving the stage to meet his parents, Trump mentioned Freytes while talking about his administration’s effort to lower crime. “Two weeks ago, a 12-year-old boy named Jacob Freytes — You read about this one? — was tragically shot and killed by a stray bullet fired by a repeat offender in a gun battle,” Trump said. He added: “Jacob was the son of a loving mom and a retired New York City police detective, and they are incredible people, and I think I heard that they may be with us today. Are you with us?”

He then left the stage and hugged Freytes’ teary-eyed mom, Migdalia Martinez, and his father, retired NYPD Sgt. Jesus Freytes, saying a few private words to both of them. “Incredible. Horrible story. What a horrible thing,” he said when he returned to the stage. “But we’re going after them. These are bad, sick people.”

Call for Harsher Penalties

Freytes’ death has prompted Republicans to introduce “Jacob’s Law” in the New York Legislature that would put harsher penalties on criminals whose reckless actions result in the death of a child. Police said William Ferrer, 45, was arrested and faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder. He has pleaded not guilty. Ferrer has an arrest record dating back more than 25 years, including prior charges for drunk driving, drug possession, menacing and criminal contempt.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.