The United States has placed a $25,000 bounty on the head of a Nigerian man, Olalekan Olawusi, who is on the run after being charged in connection with the alleged murder of his infant son. Olawusi, who was living in Rhode Island at the time of the incident, has been added to the US Marshals’ list of “15 Most Wanted Fugitives.”
According to a statement by Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Don Freeman, the case stems from a brutal attack that occurred on April 3, 2017. Emergency responders discovered Olawusi’s three-month-old child bleeding from multiple injuries at their home. The child, who was found in cardiac arrest, was rushed to the hospital where doctors found signs of long-term abuse, including a fractured skull, rib fractures, and significant brain injuries.
The child was placed on life support but tragically died six months later due to the severity of the injuries. The infant’s death led authorities to upgrade charges against Olawusi from child abuse to first-degree murder. Olawusi, who was arrested and charged in April 2017, was released on the same day, and he fled the country soon after, likely with the help of family members in Nigeria.
Freeman further confirmed that Olawusi, aged 48, is now being sought for his role in the abuse and subsequent death of his child. US authorities are particularly concerned about his potential danger to other children and members of the public. The U.S. Marshals Service is leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to apprehend him.
A Pattern of Abuse and Fleeing Justice
The investigation revealed that the child had been subjected to repeated physical harm, with at least 18 distinct injuries found on his small body. These injuries were in various stages of healing, suggesting that Olawusi had been abusing the infant over a period of time. Among the injuries were fractures to the skull, ribs, clavicle, and limbs, all of which were considered life-threatening.
After his arrest in 2017, Olawusi was charged with multiple counts of serious child abuse. However, after his release, the fugitive fled the US and was traced to Nigeria. The U.S. authorities believe that he may be receiving assistance from relatives in Nigeria as he continues to evade capture.
Reward for Information
Authorities have issued a $25,000 reward for anyone who can provide information that leads to Olawusi’s arrest. He is known to use the alias Olekun Olawusi and is described as standing 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing approximately 185 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.
US officials are urging anyone with information on Olawusi’s whereabouts to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or through the USMS Tips App.
Call for Justice
The U.S. Marshals’ Service has emphasized the importance of bringing Olawusi to justice, not only for the sake of the victim’s family but also to prevent further harm. “Olawusi is a danger to the public and must be held accountable for his heinous crimes,” said Freeman. “We will use every available resource to ensure that he faces justice for the tragic death of his child.”
As Olawusi continues to evade capture, authorities are determined to find him, ensuring that he does not escape the consequences of his actions.
