A 33-year-old Ghanaian man has been arrested for allegedly shooting his estranged wife to death at a grocery store in Maryland, USA.
The suspect, Frederick Owusu Sakyi, was apprehended by the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) on Saturday night, after a brief chase. He had two guns in his vehicle, a handgun, and an assault rifle, according to the authorities.
The victim, whose name has not been released, was found dead at the Urbana Giant store, where she worked as a cashier. She had multiple gunshot wounds to her upper body, the FCSO said.
The motive for the killing is still under investigation, but the FCSO said that Sakyi and his wife were going through a divorce process and had a history of domestic violence. There were also several protective orders issued against Sakyi, who had been stalking his wife, the FCSO added.
The incident shocked the local community, where the victim was described as a friendly and hardworking woman. She had moved to the US from Ghana a few years ago, hoping for a better life, according to her co-workers and friends.
“She was always smiling and cheerful. She was very kind and helpful to everyone. She loved her job and her customers. She didn’t deserve this,” said one of her colleagues, who wished to remain anonymous.
The FCSO said that Sakyi is facing charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, first-degree assault, second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, and firearm use in a violent crime. He is being held without bond at the Frederick County Adult Detention Center.
The FCSO also said that it is working with the Ghanaian Embassy to notify the victim’s family and arrange for the repatriation of her body.
The FCSO urged anyone with information about the case to contact Detective Skelley at 301-600-1046 or the FCSO tip line at 301-600-4131.
A Call for Justice
The brutal murder of the Ghanaian woman has sparked outrage and grief among the Ghanaian community in Maryland and beyond. Many have taken to social media to express their condolences and demand justice for the victim.
Some have also called for more awareness and action to prevent domestic violence, especially among immigrant communities, where cultural and linguistic barriers may hinder access to support and resources.
“We are deeply saddened and angered by this senseless act of violence. We stand in solidarity with the victim’s family and friends and the Ghanaian community at large. We call for a swift and fair prosecution of the perpetrator and a full protection of the rights and dignity of the victim,” said a statement from the Ghanaian Association of Maryland, a non-profit organization that promotes the welfare and integration of Ghanaians in the state.
The association also said that it is providing assistance and counseling to the victim’s relatives and co-workers, as well as raising funds to cover the funeral expenses.
“We urge anyone who is experiencing or witnessing domestic violence to speak up and seek help. Many organizations and agencies can offer support and guidance. You are not alone. You deserve to live in peace and safety,” the statement added.
Despite the tragedy, some people have also expressed hope and gratitude for the kindness and generosity of the Ghanaian community and the American society.
They have praised the FCSO for its swift and professional response, as well as the Giant store for its compassion and cooperation.
They have also thanked the many individuals and groups who have offered their prayers, condolences, and donations to the victim’s family.
“We are heartbroken by this loss, but we are also hopeful for the future. We are grateful for the love and support we have received from our brothers and sisters, both in Ghana and in the US. We are proud of our culture and heritage, but we are also proud of our contribution and integration into American society. We are one people, one nation, under God,” said a message from the victim’s cousin, who asked to be identified only as Kwame.
