The United States has announced a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, a Nigerian accused of murdering his three-month-old son. Olawusi, previously residing in Rhode Island, now ranks among the U.S. Marshals Service's 15 most wanted fugitives, as revealed in a statement by Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Don Freeman.
The tragic case began on April 3, 2017, when emergency responders found Olawusi’s infant son with severe injuries at a residence in Rhode Island. The child, who suffered 18 distinct injuries, including a skull fracture and rib fractures, was hospitalized in critical condition and later placed on life support. Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries six months later, on October 31, 2017, which led prosecutors to add a murder charge to Olawusi’s charges of first-degree child abuse and unlawful flight.
Olawusi, who was initially arrested and released on bail, fled the country on June 20, 2017, allegedly with assistance from family members in Nigeria. Freeman stressed that Olawusi poses a potential danger to children and the public, urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or through the USMS Tips App.
“Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child and has fled the country to avoid justice,” Freeman stated.
