Nigerian runner, MBA student killed during robbery in US

The Nigerian sporting community has been thrown into mourning following the death of Nigerian athlete and MBA student, Oluwabukola Pereira, who was reportedly shot dead in the United States just days before her graduation.

Pereira was killed on Friday, May 8, during what authorities believe was a robbery incident at Arise Auto Center, where she worked.

According to local reports, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office has launched an investigation into the incident, although officials are yet to officially confirm the motive behind the shooting.

A co-worker at the auto shop, Don Simpson, told local television station Marcella Porter TV that Pereira allegedly attempted to pursue a suspect who fled with about $1,500 before she was shot.

“She was loyal, good and brave,” Simpson said. “She came to this country trying to build a good life.”

Originally from Nigeria, Pereira was scheduled to graduate from Xavier University on May 16 with a Master of Business Administration degree. The university also disclosed that she had already secured admission to begin another postgraduate programme in Business Analytics later this year.

In a statement, Xavier University President, Colleen Hanycz, described Pereira as a woman known for her positivity, faith, and generosity.

“Friends describe her as kind, honest, intelligent and beautiful — inside and out,” the statement read.

Beyond academics, Pereira was actively involved in athletics and was a member of Cincinnati’s Elite running group, participating in several competitions, including the Flying Pig Marathon.

Family members described her as “a bright and shining star” who dedicated her life to worship, prayer, and helping others.

It was also gathered that Pereira, the first of four children in her family, was preparing for marriage later this year after getting engaged in 2025.

Authorities said the suspect is believed to be a man between the ages of 25 and 35, described as Black or Hispanic, with long hair styled in braids or dreadlocks. He was last seen running towards the Gardner Park area.

The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with useful information regarding the incident to contact Crime Stoppers as investigations continue.