In response to criticism over his initial silence regarding the tragic shooting of 15-year-old Jaden Pierre in Queens, Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced on Wednesday that he is working to organize a meeting with the teenager’s family.
“I expressed my deep sorrow about this heartbreaking incident earlier, emphasizing its profound impact not only on Jaden’s family and friends but also on many New Yorkers who were disturbed by the bystanders’ inaction in the video,” Mamdani remarked during an unrelated event.
He added, “As a city government, we share the responsibility to address such incidents. I trust the NYPD to diligently pursue justice and hold the perpetrator accountable.”
Mamdani also noted that efforts are underway to arrange a meeting with Pierre’s family, although the exact timing has yet to be determined.
The mayor faced criticism from former Mayor Eric Adams for his initial lack of response following the shocking shooting at Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans, which was captured on video last week.
During a discussion titled “Mamdani’s First 100 Days: Lessons From La Guardia” on WNYC, Mamdani addressed the criticism, offering condolences to Pierre’s family and highlighting the urgent need to renew efforts against gun violence in the city.
But he declined to directly respond to Adams.
“A 15-year-old kid was beaten and shot to death at a Southeast Queens playground yesterday. And somehow this isn’t the top story. Credit to AG Letitia James & BP Richards for speaking up,” Adams had written on X.
“Where is everyone else, including @NYCMayor Mamdani? Outrage shouldn’t depend on zip code. Every child deserves protection.”
Mamdani did not attend a vigil for the slain teen on Monday, where family, friends and other lawmakers came together.
State Attorney General Letitia James attended the service and urged the shooter to turn themself in.
“I want everyone to know that the police know who shot Jaden,” she said. “I would urge this gentleman to turn himself in, to surrender as soon as possible, before the NYPD gets to you. They know who you are.”
Big Apple mayors often visit with family and friends after tragic incidents to console them.
When 12-year-old Kade Lewin was shot dead on March 31, 2022, while sitting inside a minivan in Brooklyn, Adams went to see the family within days and held a press conference with the mourning mother — where she asked the killers to come forward.
