The United States has issued a $25,000 reward for information leading to the capture of Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, a Nigerian fugitive facing serious charges in connection with the death of his three-month-old son. The U.S. Marshals Service announced Olawusi’s addition to their “15 Most Wanted” list as they continue the manhunt.
According to Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Don Freeman, Olawusi was initially charged in 2017 with first-degree child abuse after emergency responders in Providence, Rhode Island, found his son in critical condition. Authorities reported the infant had visible injuries on 18 different parts of his body, suggesting prolonged abuse. The child, suffering from severe trauma including skull fractures and broken bones, was placed on life support and passed away six months later due to his injuries. Following his death, murder charges were added to the case against Olawusi.
Freeman explained that Olawusi was arrested on April 20, 2017, and charged with child abuse, but he fled after being released the same day. Subsequent investigations revealed that he left the U.S. on June 20, 2017, and has since received support from family members in Nigeria. “Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child,” Freeman said. “We have placed him on our 15 Most Wanted list due to the heinous crimes he’s committed and the danger he poses to the public. The U.S. Marshals will exhaust all resources to bring him to justice.”
Olawusi, who reportedly uses the alias Olekun Olawusi, is described as 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing around 185 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. The public is urged to contact the U.S. Marshals with any tips by calling 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or using the USMS Tips App. Authorities are intensifying efforts to locate Olawusi and bring closure to the family of the child as well as the broader community.
