Mother Endorsed Challenger to Attorney General James
Migdalia Martinez backed Saritha Komatireddy, citing concerns over public safety in the Bronx.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Criminal Justice
Migdalia Martinez, whose 12-year-old son was killed by a stray bullet in July 2026, has endorsed former federal prosecutor Saritha Komatireddy for New York Attorney General. Martinez appeared in a campaign advertisement criticizing incumbent Letitia James for focusing on national politics rather than issues in the Bronx.
Why it matters
The endorsement highlights the ongoing debate over public safety policies and the priorities of the Attorney General's office. Martinez argues for a shift in focus toward local community safety following the death of her son.
William Ferrer was charged in the killing of Jacob Freytes following an incident at a grocery store and has pleaded not guilty. The investigation and legal proceedings remain ongoing.
The players
Migdalia Martinez
She is the mother of 12-year-old Jacob Freytes, who was killed by a stray bullet in 2026.
Saritha Komatireddy
She is a former federal prosecutor who is running for New York Attorney General.
Letitia James
She has served as the Attorney General of New York since 2019.
William Ferrer
He is the man charged with the killing of 12-year-old Jacob Freytes in the Bronx.
Jacob Freytes
He was a 12-year-old boy who was killed by a stray bullet during a street dispute in 2026.
The details
William Ferrer, who has a criminal record dating back to 1999, was charged after a street dispute outside a grocery store led to the death of Jacob Freytes. The campaign advertisement criticizing Letitia James is currently airing across cable television, streaming, and digital platforms.
Timeline
William Ferrer began his record of criminal arrests in 1999.
Letitia James began her term as Attorney General in 2019.
Jacob Freytes was killed in the Bronx in July 2026.
William Ferrer was charged in the killing on July 25, 2026.
The campaign advertisement featuring Migdalia Martinez was released in September 2026.
Legal Context
The endorsement highlights the intense scrutiny placed on the New York Attorney General's office mandates regarding public safety and criminal prosecution. This debate mirrors historical local efforts to shift prosecution priorities in response to violent crime statistics.
The high-profile nature of this race and the focus on violent crime may lead to increased visibility of safety measures and policy debates in the Bronx. Residents may see intensified campaigning as the election for Attorney General approaches.
The takeaway
This race highlights how personal tragedies can become central to political campaigns in New York. Voters are faced with contrasting visions for the role of the Attorney General regarding public safety.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings and reform, visit Criminal Justice.
