Suspect accused in killing a father and his toddler granted $750K bond for each murder charge
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Bond was set at more than $1.5 million for the man accused of shooting a father to death and then leaving the victim's son to die in a hot car.
Bolanle Fadairo, 38, has been charged with two counts of murder, as well as tampering with evidence.
Thursday morning, Houston police released a mugshot of Fadairo. ABC13 also has an exclusive video of his arrest that happened just before 5 a.m. Wednesday.
Fadairo is accused of shooting 38-year-old Michael Essien to death after an argument outside a strip center in the 5500 block of El Camino Del Rey and Chimney Rock on Tuesday.
Investigators say Fadairo admitted that he had known Essien for about 30 years, and even used the victim's home address to receive mail, according to court video.
"(Fadairo) stated the argument started from (Essien) owing him money," court documents read. Fadairo was employed by Essien.
On the day of the shooting, Fadairo took off in Essien's SUV with the victim's 2-year-old son still in a car seat. The SUV was later found abandoned with the child inside, who was found unresponsive.
SEE RELATED STORY: Dad just welcomed baby, 2-year-old son started calling aunt by name before both died, family says
Charging documents said the car was locked, and the windows were rolled up as outdoor temperatures reached 93 degrees.
Fadairo allegedly tried to destroy some text messages, records say.
"(Fadairo) admitted he had incriminating texts between him and the decedent, detailing disagreement about money, and deleted them after he killed decedent," the judge said.
While a motion had been filed to deny bond in this case, the suspect was granted a $750,000 bond for each of the murder charges and a $50,000 bond for the tampering with evidence charge.
According to Fadairo's attorney, the suspect works three jobs to support a child, earning $15,000 a year.
His bond conditions do not allow Fadairo to have contact with any of Essien's family members or any witnesses. He must also stay at least 200 feet away from where any members of the victim's family live or work. A judge also ordered that he not consume any drugs or alcohol, and he must stay within the limits of Harris County.
ABC13 spoke with Essien's sister, Jessie. She said he was married and has two other children, a 5-year-old son and a 1-week-old baby.
"Michael never argued with anybody. Michael would take his shirt off and give to others. He gives his last dime to other people. All I need is my brother," Jessie said.
SEE RELATED STORY: 2-year-old found dead inside vehicle that was stolen from shooting victim in SW Houston, HPD says
