Isaiah Oludayo Olugbemi, a Nigerian-born boxer with aspirations of turning professional, has tragically died in Maryland, USA, after being shot multiple times, local authorities have confirmed.
Olugbemi was found with gunshot wounds near Meadowmist Way and Stehlik Drive and was pronounced dead upon arrival at Shock Trauma in Baltimore.
The 27-year-old, who had been training at a gym in Anne Arundel County and aimed to go pro by year-end, showed promise, winning the national Golden Gloves Championship in just three years, according to his gym owner Christen Jeter, who called his death devastating.
Nicholas Francis Xavier Giroux, 36, has been charged with first- and second-degree murder in connection with Olugbemi’s killing.
Authorities believe the shooting was targeted, not random, citing surveillance footage showing Giroux approaching Olugbemi with a handgun, firing shots, and fleeing on foot.
Reportedly a neighbor of Olugbemi, Giroux had allegedly threatened him with a gun earlier this year, according to Olugbemi’s brother Abraham, though no charges were filed then, Maryland court records show.
Despite the tragedy, Olugbemi had recent victories, including winning an amateur fight after his National Golden Gloves success in Washington D.C. in May.
Known as a mentor at his gym, Olugbemi inspired younger athletes and had a close group of friends who admired his dedication and accomplishments.
Police are asking local residents with private surveillance footage to share it to aid in their investigation into this tragic incident.
