International soccer star, 27, dies in ‘brutal attack’ near Uganda home

Digital Editor

KAMPALA, Central Region —

David Owori, a 27-year-old international soccer star, has died following an assault in Uganda’s capital, Kampala.

Owori, the captain of SC Villa and one of the best-known soccer players in the nation, was the victim of a “brutal assault by unknown assailants” near his home on Monday, according to a statement from the club.

The 27-year-old midfielder was found unconscious by a passerby in a suburb of Kampala, according to numerous reports. He was taken to an area hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

No arrests have been made.

In an official statement, SC Villa condemned the violence and appealed to the authorities to ensure that those behind the attack are apprehended and prosecuted.

“We call upon the relevant security and law enforcement agencies to urgently pursue, apprehend, and bring to justice the perpetrators of this heinous crime,” a statement from the club reads.

Owori’s sudden death sent shockwaves across the nation and the sporting world.

“David was not just a footballer. He was both a leader and an inspiration to a generation. As Captain of SC Villa, he led with courage, humility and passion. In the Uganda Cranes jersey, he carried the hopes of a nation,” a statement from the Federation of Uganda Football Associations reads in part.

Owori began his professional career with Vipers SC in 2016 and later played in Spain and Sweden before returning to SC Villa. He helped Villa win a record-extending 17th Uganda Premier League title, and represented Uganda internationally.

Crime is rampant in the capital of the East African country. Owori’s death follows that of Ugandan rugby player Sydney Gongodyo, who died following a mob attack in Kampala after being falsely accused of being a thief, local authorities said.