A Nigerian-born professor, Dr. Samuel Eweni, a respected scholar in the Department of Computer Science at Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO), was tragically stabbed to death by his son on Tuesday, November 13, at their home on Pebble Drive in New Orleans.
His son, Chukwuebuka Eweni, carried out the attack during what the family described as a calm, ordinary evening before suddenly grabbing a knife. He also stabbed his two sisters—both survived. One of the sisters has since been discharged from the hospital, while the other is still receiving medical care.
Family members confirmed that Chukwuebuka had long battled mental illness, noting that although he frequently sought help, he had never exhibited violent behavior. They said they have no understanding of what triggered Tuesday night’s outburst.
Following the incident, the family later learned that Chukwuebuka went to New Orleans East Hospital, where he would regularly check himself in for mental health support. Unaware of the crime, hospital staff reportedly transferred him to a mental health facility in Jefferson Parish. Authorities located him there and took him into custody on Wednesday morning.
“Dr. Eweni was more than an educator—he was a mentor and a guiding light to so many of our students,” said Dr. Joseph Bouie, Jr., Chancellor of SUNO.
“His contributions to the College of Business and Public Administration and to the university’s mission of transforming lives through education will be remembered and celebrated. Our hearts are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this deeply difficult time.”
Dr. Eweni is being remembered as a compassionate academic, a dedicated mentor, and a pillar of the SUNO community.
