Omanghana
Dr. Kofi Akamani, a 48-year-old Ghanaian professor at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, died after being shot in Jackson County, Illinois, on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
His wife, 35-year-old Betty Akamani, has been arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of child endangerment in connection with the shooting.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office reportedly received information about an active shooting at about 5 p.m. near a residence off Lake Road, between Murphysboro and Carbondale.
Emergency personnel transported Dr. Akamani to the Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, where he was pronounced dead from his injuries.
During Betty Akamani’s first court appearance on Monday, September 21, prosecutors alleged that she shot her husband as he drove away from her apartment after dropping off a child for visitation.
Court records reportedly show that the couple had been separated for two years and were going through divorce proceedings when the incident occurred.
A judge granted a request from prosecutors to deny Betty Akamani pretrial release. She remains in custody at the Jackson County Jail and is expected to appear for a preliminary hearing on October 6, 2026.
The charges against her remain allegations, and she is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Dr. Akamani worked at Southern Illinois University for 15 years and served as a professor of Forest Recreation and Conservation Social Science in the Department of Forestry.
His research examined how communities around the world manage natural resources and respond to environmental change. He also contributed as a lead author to major international environmental assessments.
Southern Illinois University expressed shock and grief over his death, describing him as a kind and dedicated member of its academic community.
The institution has made counselling and psychological services available to students, faculty members and colleagues affected by the tragedy.
The university’s Forestry Department has also organised a vigil to honor Dr. Akamani’s life and contributions to education, environmental research and the SIU community.
Source: Omanghana
