Oluwabukola Pereira was shot and killed on Friday, May 8, 2026, in Lockland, Ohio.
The 30-year-old Nigerian athlete and scholar was just one week away from graduating with her Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Xavier University.
Oluwabukola was working at Arise Auto Centre when authorities believed a robbery occurred. According to her co-workers, she bravely pursued a suspect who had stolen approximately $1,500 from the business. During the confrontation, she was shot and died at the scene. 
Pereira moved to the US from Nigeria with just $10 and big dreams. Her friends and colleagues described her as hardworker, loyal, brave, and deeply devoted to her Christian faith.
“She listened to gospel music all day. You go in there, you’re going to get preached to about the Lord and all that, ya know. The Lord being her husband,” Simpson, her co-worker, said.
According to them, she usually played gospel music at work and was known for her positive spirit and generous heart.
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Apart from being a postgraduate student, she was a passionate athlete—a dedicated runner who excelled in the sport. Her journey represented the pursuit of the “American Dream,” as many who knew her have noted.
Xavier University honored her memory during its commencement ceremonies on May 16, 2026, where her family accepted her diploma posthumously. The university officials highlighted her positivity, faith, and commitment to service.
“She was known for her positivity, deep faith, and generous spirit — hallmarks of a life lived in service to others. Friends describe her as kind, honest, intelligent, and beautiful — inside and out,” the university wrote in a statement.
Oluwabukola Pereira’s family has established a foundation in her honor to support children’s access to education and sports.
According to FOX19 NOW, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the homicide. They described the suspect as a man approximately 25-35 years old, Black or Hispanic, with long hair in braids or dreadlocks. He was last seen fleeing the area toward Gardner Park.
Authorities are seeking surveillance video from nearby businesses and have asked the public for any information.
However, no arrests have been made as of the latest reports.
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