The United States has announced a $25,000 reward for anyone who can provide information leading to the arrest of Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, a Nigerian man wanted for allegedly killing his infant son.
The U.S. Marshals Service has now added Olawusi to its list of the 15 most-wanted fugitives.
According to Don Freeman, Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal, Olawusi was charged with first-degree murder and fleeing to avoid prosecution.
Freeman shared that on April 3, 2017, police and firefighters in Rhode Island responded to a call and found Olawusi’s three-month-old son in distress, with signs of severe injuries, including fractures and brain damage. Medical staff found injuries on 18 parts of the baby’s body, suggesting a pattern of long-term abuse.
Olawusi was arrested and charged with child abuse on April 20, 2017. However, he was released the same day and later fled the U.S.
The infant, who had been on life support, died six months after the initial incident, leading to an additional charge of murder.
Investigations revealed that Olawusi left the U.S. in June 2017, possibly with assistance from family in Nigeria. The U.S. Marshals Service considers him a danger to the public and is committed to using all available resources to bring him to justice.
Olawusi, who may also go by the name “Olekun Olawusi,” is described as 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing approximately 185 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information on his location is urged to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or submit tips via the USMS Tips App.