(DDM) – Tragedy struck in Warri, Delta State, as a 60-year-old American woman, Jacqueline Bolling Elton, died under mysterious circumstances, sparking grief and concern both in Nigeria and abroad.
DDM gathered from police sources that Elton had arrived in Nigeria recently to visit her 39-year-old companion, identified as Alawode Olaide. Reports indicate that Elton suddenly fell ill on September 29 while in Warri.
She was initially rushed to a private facility in Otokutu, but her condition deteriorated. She was later transferred to Central Hospital, Warri, where doctors pronounced her dead despite efforts to revive her.
Police authorities confirmed that Olaide, who was with her at the time of the incident, has been taken into custody.
The Delta State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has since launched an inquiry to determine the exact circumstances leading to Elton’s untimely death.
Community members described the incident as shocking and unusual. Several residents noted that Elton was occasionally seen in the company of her Nigerian partner since her arrival.
Her sudden passing, they said, has left many unsettled and calling for answers.
Family and friends of the deceased in the United States have reportedly contacted Nigerian authorities, demanding transparency in the ongoing investigation.
According to sources close to the family, Elton had expressed excitement about her trip and was in regular contact with loved ones abroad until her health crisis occurred.
Security experts in Delta State stressed the need for a thorough investigation. One analyst, who requested anonymity, warned that cases involving foreigners require delicate handling to avoid diplomatic tensions. “The authorities must be transparent.
A postmortem examination is critical to determine whether foul play was involved. Without that, speculation will continue to spread,” the expert stated.
Human rights advocates have also weighed in, calling on the police to ensure that Elton’s case does not join the growing list of unresolved deaths of foreigners in Nigeria.
They cited past incidents in which investigations dragged on for years without closure, leaving families in despair.
Police sources confirmed that Olaide is cooperating with investigators but maintained that his detention is routine given the suspicious circumstances. Detectives are reportedly reviewing medical records, financial transactions, and Elton’s movements prior to her death.
Forensic experts are also expected to conduct an autopsy to establish whether her death was natural, accidental, or the result of criminal activity.
Meanwhile, community leaders in Warri expressed sympathy to Elton’s family, urging calm while investigations continue.
Some residents noted that the tragedy has renewed concerns about safety for foreign visitors in Nigeria, particularly women who travel to meet acquaintances they met online.
Diplomatic channels are also being engaged. Sources hinted that the United States consular office in Lagos has been informed of the incident and may soon release a statement.
The consulate is expected to monitor the investigation closely to ensure due process and protect the interests of Elton’s family.
For now, Jacqueline Bolling Elton’s sudden death remains a mystery. Authorities insist that a full investigation will be pursued, but many in Warri and beyond continue to demand that the truth be uncovered without delay.
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