Nigerian Athlete Killed In US Robbery Days Before MBA Graduation -

Police in the United States have launched an investigation into the killing of Nigerian middle-distance athlete, Oluwabukola Pereira, who was shot dead during an alleged robbery in Lockland, Ohio.

The 30-year-old athlete was reportedly killed on May 8 at the Arise Auto Center on North Wayne Avenue, where she worked as a cashier. Pereira was said to be just days away from graduating with an MBA degree on May 16 before the tragic incident occurred.

According to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting led to a temporary shelter-in-place order while officers secured the area and began investigations. Authorities later confirmed that Pereira died at the scene from gunshot wounds.

Investigators are now appealing to residents and business owners in Lockland and nearby Lincoln Heights to provide surveillance footage that may help identify the suspect.

Police described the suspect as a heavily built Black man wearing grey sweatpants and a black sweatshirt, who reportedly fled through a nearby creek area.

SWAN Mourns Loss of Two Veteran Sports Journalists

World Athletics Rejects Favour Ofili’s Switch to Turkey

Messi Scores 900th Goal, Makes History

Before her death, Pereira had built a respected athletics career representing Nigeria in the 800m and 1500m events. She competed in several local and international competitions, including collegiate meets in the United States and the 2024 Portland Track Festival.

Her grassroots coach, Rauf Abass, described the incident as heartbreaking, revealing that he personally helped inform Pereira’s family in Nigeria about her death.

Abass also said the late athlete had been a major source of financial support for her family and was admired by teammates and members of the sporting community.

A co-worker, Don Simpson, told local media that Pereira attempted to confront the robbery suspect before she was shot. Her fiancé, Gbenga Showole, described her as a caring and deeply faithful person, adding that plans were underway to establish a foundation in her memory.