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Ugandan football has been plunged into mourning following the death of SC Villa captain David Owori, who reportedly succumbed to injuries sustained after being attacked by unknown assailants near his home in Makindye.
Owori was rushed to Case Clinic after the incident and was admitted in critical condition. Earlier on Wednesday, SC Villa confirmed that their captain had been seriously injured and appealed for prayers as he received emergency medical treatment.
According to reports, the attack occurred at around 8:00pm on Tuesday night, with initial reports wrongly suggesting that the defender had been involved in a boda boda accident. SC Villa later clarified that Owori had been attacked by unknown thugs.
The devastating news of his passing was subsequently reported, with the player said to have died after succumbing to the injuries sustained during the attack. NBS Sport reported that Owori died after being taken to Case Hospital for treatment.
Owori was more than just a player for SC Villa. He had grown into one of the club's most important senior figures and was entrusted with the captain's armband.
The versatile defender and midfielder was known for his work rate, discipline and ability to operate in different positions. His leadership on the pitch made him an influential member of the Jogoos dressing room.
Owori had two spells with SC Villa, initially joining the club in 2018 before pursuing opportunities abroad. He later returned to the Jogoos in 2023 and continued to establish himself as one of the club's dependable players.
The SC Villa official website lists Owori as a midfielder and identifies him as wearing the number 15 shirt.
Owori's name will forever be associated with one of the most memorable periods in SC Villa's recent history.
He played an important role as the Jogoos ended a 20-year wait for the Uganda Premier League title in the 2023/24 season, securing the club's record-extending 17th league championship.
His contribution, consistency and leadership helped SC Villa return to the top of Ugandan football, and he subsequently became one of the club's key senior players.
Owori also continued to feature prominently in the club's plans during the 2025/26 campaign. SC Villa's official website previously identified him as the team's assistant captain and featured him speaking ahead of important fixtures.
The circumstances surrounding Owori's death have sent shockwaves through Ugandan football.
The defender was still an active professional footballer and had been preparing for another competitive season with SC Villa. His death therefore represents not only a painful loss for his family and teammates, but also a major loss to the wider football fraternity.
SC Villa had earlier announced that club president Al Hajji Omar Mandela would address the media concerning the attack and Owori's condition.
As news of his death spreads, tributes are expected from his teammates, coaches, former clubs, football administrators and supporters across Uganda.
For the Jogoos, the loss is particularly profound: they have lost their captain, a leader and a player who helped restore the club to the summit of Ugandan football.
David Owori's football journey has ended in heartbreaking circumstances, but his contribution to SC Villa and Ugandan football will be remembered.
May his soul rest in peace.
