Tragedy has struck the Nigerian community in the United States with the death of 26-year-old bodybuilder Michael Chidozie. Chidozie passed away on April 8th after 18 days in critical condition, succumbing to complications from a gunshot wound sustained during a domestic dispute with his wife.
On March 21st, Chidozie was shot multiple times by his wife, Keaiirra Shavoiyae, 28, inside their Houston apartment. The argument reportedly unfolded in front of their young children. Details surrounding the incident are still emerging; however, local media outlet ABC13 reports that court documents show Chidozie was shot twice in the torso, once in the arm, and once in the chest.
Despite immediate medical attention and life support, Chidozie ultimately succumbed to the severity of his spinal cord injuries on April 8th.
Keaiirra Shavoiyae claims she acted in self-defense during the argument. Investigators report she stated fear for her life when Chidozie followed her into the bedroom, prompting her to retrieve and fire a pistol.
Shavoiyae was initially charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. According to ABC13, these charges have not been upgraded following Chidozie’s death. She has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear in court again on May 23rd.
Chidozie’s family is grieving his loss and working to raise $70,000 to repatriate his body to Nigeria for burial. A GoFundMe page has been established to assist them with these expenses.