Trump pauses mid-speech to embrace mom of 12-year-old boy killed by stray bullet: ‘What a horrible thing’

Trump was discussing crime when he brought up the death of 12-year-old Jacob Freytes, who was struck by a stray bullet in the Bronx in July. “Two weeks ago, a 12-year-old boy named Jacob Freytes was tragically shot and killed by a stray bullet,” Trump told the audience, noting that Jacob's parents might be present.

As Trump recognized the family, Martinez became visibly emotional in the audience. She stood alongside Jacob's father, Jesus Freytes, as those around them applauded. Photographs from the event captured Martinez fighting back tears as she listened to the president speak about her son. Jacob had been caught in gunfire outside a Bronx bodega in July. Authorities have said he was an innocent bystander.

Trump then did something that wasn’t part of his prepared remarks: he stepped away from the podium and walked off the stage toward Jacob’s parents. The president approached Martinez and Freytes, embracing them as the audience watched. He also appeared to exchange a few private words with the couple before returning to the stage.

After speaking privately with the couple, Trump returned to the stage and briefly reflected on what had just happened “Incredible. Horrible story. What a horrible thing,” Trump said, before promising that his administration would pursue people responsible for violent crime.

The embrace unfolded during a speech largely devoted to Trump's law-and-order agenda. Trump traveled to the Nassau County Police Academy to promote newly released FBI figures showing a decline in violent crime in 2025. According to the data highlighted at the event, overall violent crime fell 9.3 per cent, while the national homicide rate reached its lowest level in decades. The president also used the appearance to attack Democratic leaders and promote Republican candidates, including Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who is running for governor.