Do you know who murdered 66 year old Oluwadayo Epenusi?
Oluwadayo Epenusi, a 66-year-old pastor, had only recently moved to the United States from his native Nigeria, seeking a new chapter in a life devoted to his faith. Known to his friends and community as a man of God, he settled in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he planned to continue his work. His journey, however, was tragically cut short in the spring of 2017, leaving a community in shock and his loved ones searching for answers that remain elusive.
In the early morning hours of Saturday, May 20, 2017, the quiet of an apartment complex on the city’s west side, near the intersection of West 10th Street and Interstate 465, was shattered by the sound of gunfire. A neighbor, Kristina Teague, was startled by a rapid succession of shots and later recalled hearing what sounded like 15 rounds being fired. She quickly dialed 911 to report the alarming disturbance. Outside, Oluwadayo Epenusi had been shot.
Critically wounded, he managed to make his way back to his own apartment. When police arrived at the scene, they found that Epenusi was no longer there. His roommate, having discovered the gravely injured pastor, had already rushed him to Eskenazi Hospital in a desperate attempt to save his life. Tragically, the injuries were too severe, and Oluwadayo Epenusi, a Black male, succumbed to his wounds shortly after arriving at the hospital.
The investigation into his death was launched immediately by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, who began a manhunt for the person or persons responsible. Detectives canvassed the area, speaking with residents and searching for clues. However, the motive for the shooting remained unclear. In the immediate aftermath, Epenusi’s friend, Moshood Kafaru, who had also immigrated from Nigeria, spoke of the confusion and pain surrounding the incident. He shared that Epenusi’s roommate had tried to ask him what had happened on the way to the hospital, but the pastor was in too much pain to speak. He died without being able to tell anyone who attacked him or why.
The case has grown cold over the years, with no arrests made and no suspects publicly identified. The lack of information has left his family and friends with a heavy burden of unanswered questions. The sudden and violent end to a life that had been dedicated to peace and faith is a painful contradiction that his community continues to grapple with. Friends and neighbors remember him as a pastor, a recent immigrant filled with hope, whose life was stolen before he had the chance to fully build his new future in America.
As of May 2017, the investigation into Oluwadayo Epenusi's homicide is ongoing but inactive. Authorities have not released any descriptions of potential suspects. The case remains a painful open wound for his loved ones. Police continue to urge anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward. Individuals with tips are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-TIPS, where they can remain anonymous.
