The United States has announced a reward of up to $25,000 for information that could lead to the arrest of Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, a Nigerian man who is reportedly facing charges for the alleged murder of his child. Olawusi, 48, was added to the U.S. Marshals Service’s “15 Most Wanted” fugitives list, according to Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Don Freeman in a statement on the agency’s website.
Olawusi, previously residing in Rhode Island, is wanted on charges of first-degree murder related to severe bodily injuries inflicted on his three-month-old son and unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. The alleged abuse incident occurred on April 3, 2017, when police and firefighters responded to a call and found the infant with multiple injuries. Medical examinations revealed 18 injuries at different stages of healing, indicating long-term abuse, including fractures in the skull, ribs, clavicle, and limbs.
After being initially arrested on April 20, 2017, Olawusi was released pending trial. He then fled the country on June 20, 2017, and is believed to have received assistance from family members in Nigeria. Tragically, the child later died on October 31, 2017, prompting authorities to add a murder charge to Olawusi’s case.
Deputy Marshal Freeman noted that Olawusi poses a potential threat to children and others, underscoring the U.S. Marshals’ commitment to using all resources to bring him to justice. “Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child and has evaded justice by fleeing the country. The U.S. Marshals Service will pursue every means available to ensure he faces the charges against him,” Freeman stated.
Olawusi, who also goes by the alias Olekun Olawusi, is described as 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing approximately 185 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or through the USMS Tips App.
