In a chilling case that has captured national attention, the United States government is offering a reward of $25,000 for information leading to the arrest of Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, a Nigerian fugitive accused of the heinous murder of his three-month-old child.
According to a statement released by Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Don Freeman, Olawusi has been placed on the U.S. Marshals Service’s list of 15 most wanted fugitives. The troubling allegations against Olawusi stem from a harrowing incident that took place on April 3, 2017, in Providence, Rhode Island.
Law enforcement officials and emergency responders were called to a residence where they discovered the infant in a critical condition, bleeding from his mouth and nose. The baby was swiftly transported to a local hospital, arriving in cardiac arrest and requiring immediate resuscitation.
Medical examinations revealed a shocking 18 separate injuries on the child’s frail body, indicative of prolonged abuse. These injuries included a skull fracture, serious brain trauma, and multiple broken bones across various regions. Tragically, despite the medical team’s efforts, the infant succumbed to his injuries six months later, leading to an escalation of charges against Olawusi.
Freeman noted that on April 20, 2017, Olawusi was formally charged with two counts of first-degree murder and multiple counts of inflicting serious bodily harm upon a child. However, following his release on that same day, the accused vanished, evading the judicial process.
The dire circumstances surrounding the case compelled authorities to add a murder charge after the infant’s death on October 31, 2017, igniting further scrutiny into Olawusi’s whereabouts. The U.S. Marshals Service has since launched an extensive manhunt for Olawusi, who reportedly fled the country on June 20, 2017.
Investigative efforts have suggested that he is currently receiving support from family members residing in Nigeria. Deputy Marshal Freeman emphasized the dangers Olawusi poses, not only to children but to the broader community as well.
He stated, “We are committed to utilizing all resources at our disposal to ensure he is brought to justice.”Freeman further elaborated on the severity of Olawusi’s alleged crimes, stating, “Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child. The heinous nature of his actions leaves no doubt as to the threat he poses to the public.
Our commitment to bringing him to justice is unwavering, not only for the sake of the victim’s family but for the safety of the entire community.”Described as standing approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing around 185 pounds, Olawusi has black hair and brown eyes.
He is known to also go by the alias Olekun Olawusi. Individuals with any knowledge regarding his whereabouts are urged to contact the U.S. Marshals by calling 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or via the USMS Tips App.
The shocking nature of this case has sent ripples of outrage through the community, raising awareness about domestic violence and child abuse. As the search for Olawusi continues, authorities remain vigilant and hopeful that the public will assist in the pursuit of justice for the young victim and those affected by this tragic incident.
The U.S. Marshals Service is determined to act on any leads that could help resurrect the path of justice that has been marred by Olawusi’s flight.
