The U.S. Marshals Service has placed Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, a Nigerian man accused of murdering his infant son, on its notorious “15 Most Wanted” list, offering a reward of up to $25,000 for any information that leads to his capture. The decision follows a harrowing investigation into the death of his 3-month-old son, who was discovered with severe injuries consistent with long-term abuse at a residence in Providence, Rhode Island.
The tragic incident occurred on April 3, 2017, when emergency responders found the infant in cardiac arrest. Medical personnel rushed him to the hospital, where examinations uncovered numerous injuries—skull fractures, a severe brain injury, and multiple broken bones—indicating prolonged and brutal abuse. Although the child was placed on life support, he passed away six months later on October 31, 2017.
Initially, Providence Police charged Olawusi with first-degree child abuse on April 20, 2017. However, he was released the same day and subsequently fled the country, traveling through New York’s JFK International Airport on June 20, 2017, using his Nigerian passport. Following his son’s death, charges against him were escalated to murder, and the U.S. Marshals Service joined the search for Olawusi in November 2017. Authorities suspect he may be receiving support from family members in Nigeria, and they’ve voiced concerns that he poses an ongoing risk, particularly to children.
“Mr. Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child, and has fled the country to avoid justice,” said U.S. Marshals Service Director Ronald L. Davis. “The USMS will exhaust all resources to bring him to justice.”
Standing at approximately 5 feet 8 inches and weighing around 185 pounds, Olawusi, also known as Olekun Olawusi, has black hair and brown eyes. Those with information on his whereabouts are urged to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or via the USMS Tips App.
The U.S. Marshals’ “15 Most Wanted” program was established in 1983 to capture high-profile fugitives considered significant threats to public safety. Individuals on this list often include those with histories of violent crimes, sex offenses, and involvement in organized crime. To date, the program has led to the apprehension of over 250 fugitives, with the USMS also aiding in 73,000 arrests across the country in the past fiscal year alone.
