A tragic shooting has claimed the life of 77-year-old Nigerian immigrant Olatunji Bolaji, sparking a compassionate response from Philadelphia’s student community. The Black Students Union has launched a $25,000 GoFundMe campaign to assist the bereaved family after Bolaji was fatally shot while working as an Uber driver in Center City on April 15.
The heartbreaking incident unfolded around 2 a.m. when Bolaji arrived to pick up a passenger outside Byblos Hookah Bar. As a 22-year-old rider entered his vehicle, two gunmen emerged from a nearby car and opened fire, striking Bolaji in the head and wounding the passenger. Demonstrating remarkable courage, the elderly driver managed to travel several blocks before crashing his vehicle.
BSU President Alex Morris described Bolaji as “a devoted family man whose quiet strength never faltered,” noting the organization’s longstanding connection with his family. The fundraiser aims to cover $12,000 in funeral costs, $5,000 for immediate family expenses, and $3,000 for grief counseling. “This senseless violence took a hardworking man who safely transported countless Philadelphians,” Morris stated. “Now we must help transport his family through their grief.”
The attack has sent shockwaves through Philadelphia’s rideshare community and Nigerian diaspora, with many highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by immigrant workers. As investigations continue, the student-led initiative has become a focal point for community solidarity, honoring a life cut short by random violence while providing practical support to those left behind.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the shooting to contact Philadelphia Police as they work to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. Meanwhile, the fundraiser continues to gain momentum, reflecting the profound impact of Bolaji’s life and the collective determination to support his grieving family.
