UGANDAN FOOTBALLER DAVID OWORI DIES AFTER STREET ATTACK

David Owori, captain of SC Villa, died on Wednesday after being attacked near his home in Makindye, Kampala on Tuesday night. The 27-year-old defender was beaten during an attempted robbery, according to police. Witnesses reported that attackers struck him repeatedly with paving stones. He was rushed to a medical facility and later transferred to a private hospital, where he died despite medical efforts.

Police said the attackers attempted to steal Owori's mobile phone and other belongings before assaulting him. SC Villa's spokesperson stated that Owori was ambushed as he approached his home, sustaining life-threatening injuries. The club described the incident as a "tragic ambush". Police began an investigation, processing the scene and collecting evidence to identify those responsible. Owori played as a defender and could also operate in midfield.

In 2024, Owori captained SC Villa to their first Uganda Premier League title in 20 years, helping the club secure its record 17th league crown. He represented Uganda during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The Federation of Uganda Football Associations described him as "a true leader on and off the pitch" who "carried the hopes of a nation". The Ugandan Parliament observed a minute's silence in his honour, with lawmakers calling for those responsible to be brought to justice. SC Villa released a statement saying: "We have lost more than a player—we have lost a leader, brother and friend."