The United States has announced a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest of Olalekan Olawusi, a Nigerian national wanted in connection with the alleged murder of his infant son.
Olawusi, recently added to the U.S. Marshals Service’s “15 Most Wanted” fugitives list, is facing severe charges, including first-degree murder, highlighting the gravity of the case and the urgent need to apprehend him.
The 48-year-old, formerly residing in Rhode Island, is accused of a series of child abuse offenses culminating in the tragic death of his three-month-old son. According to Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Don Freeman, Olawusi was initially charged with murder and inflicting bodily harm on a child, but later fled to avoid prosecution.
The incident reportedly occurred on April 3, 2017, when emergency responders were called to a Rhode Island home, finding the infant in critical condition with severe injuries, including bleeding from the mouth and nose. The baby was rushed to a hospital in cardiac arrest and underwent emergency resuscitation.
A medical examination revealed extensive trauma: 18 different injuries in various stages of healing, including a skull fracture, brain damage, and multiple fractures in the ribs, legs, and arms — injuries consistent with prolonged abuse.
Olawusi was initially charged on April 20, 2017, but was released the same day while awaiting trial. Authorities believe he fled Rhode Island soon after. Following the infant’s death in October 2017, additional murder charges were filed.
Investigations suggest that Olawusi left the U.S. for Nigeria on June 20, 2017. The U.S. Marshals believe he may be receiving assistance from family members in Nigeria, helping him evade capture.
“Olawusi is wanted for the horrific abuse and murder of an innocent child and has fled the country to avoid facing justice,” Freeman said. “His addition to our 15 Most Wanted list reflects the severity of his crimes and the ongoing threat he poses. The U.S. Marshals Service is committed to using every available resource to bring him to justice, for the sake of his family and the community.”
The U.S. Marshals are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in locating Olawusi.
