Police Probe K!ll!ng Of Nigerian Athlete Oluwabukola Pereira In USA

According to Ireporter Online, United States authorities have launched an investigation into the killing of Nigerian middle-distance runner and graduate student, Oluwabukola Pereira, who was shot dead during an alleged robbery incident in Lockland, Ohio, just days before she was scheduled to complete her MBA programme.

Reports indicate that the 30-year-old athlete was killed on May 8 at the Arise Auto Centre located on North Wayne Avenue, where she was employed as a cashier. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the incident led to a temporary shelter-in-place order as security agencies secured the area and urged residents to avoid nearby streets. The county coroner later confirmed that she died at the scene as a result of gunshot injuries.

Investigators from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office have appealed to members of the public to review any available CCTV or doorbell camera footage from Lockland and nearby Lincoln Heights between 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. in a bid to identify the suspect. Authorities described the suspect as a Black male of heavy build who was reportedly dressed in dark clothing and may have fled towards a creek behind the business premises after the incident.

Pereira, who represented Nigeria in middle-distance athletics, had built a competitive career spanning over a decade, with personal bests recorded in the 800 metres and 1500 metres events. She competed in various national and international competitions, including collegiate athletics in the United States and major track events over the years.

Her coach, Rauf Abass, confirmed that she was due to graduate on May 16, describing the news of her death as devastating to both her family and the sporting community. He noted that she was a key supporter of her family and had remained closely connected with her roots despite her international career.

A co-worker, Don Simpson, recounted that she was present at the workplace during the incident and expressed shock over the sudden turn of events, describing her as a familiar and hardworking colleague. Meanwhile, her fiancé, Gbenga Showole, said plans were underway to honour her memory through a foundation, highlighting her strong faith and compassion for others.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing as they continue efforts to track down those responsible for the killing.