A Nigerian national, Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, aged 48, has been placed on the U.S. Marshals Service’s “15 Most Wanted” list following charges of murder, severe child abuse, and unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. 

The authorities have offered a reward of up to $25,000 for information that could lead to his apprehension.

The charges against Olawusi date back to April 2017, when emergency medical personnel in Providence, Rhode Island, responded to a distress call at a residence and discovered his three-month-old son in critical condition. 

The infant was found with severe injuries that were later determined to be consistent with ongoing abuse. Medical reports revealed an extensive list of 18 injuries, including a skull fracture, subdural hematoma, severe brain damage, and multiple fractures to the ribs, clavicle, arms, and legs—all at various stages of healing. These findings painted a harrowing picture of what authorities believe was sustained abuse over a period of time.

The baby, who was initially found in cardiac arrest, required immediate resuscitation to regain a pulse before being rushed to the hospital. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, the child’s injuries proved too severe, and he succumbed to his trauma six months later while on life support.

Providence Police swiftly responded to the shocking discovery. On April 20, 2017, Olawusi was arrested and charged with first-degree child abuse. However, he was released from custody the same day and subsequently fled the jurisdiction. This flight from justice led to a federal warrant being issued against him, citing unlawful flight to avoid prosecution, on top of the charges of murder and child abuse.

The U.S. Marshals Service has now intensified efforts to locate and apprehend Olawusi, adding him to their “15 Most Wanted” list. This list comprises fugitives deemed highly dangerous and accused of serious crimes.