Celebrations turned tragic on Tuesday night after an Arsenal supporter lost his life in a fatal motorcycle crash, moments after the club’s stunning 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final.
The incident occurred at Mafubira Trading Centre along the Jinja-Kamuli Highway, where jubilant fans had poured into the streets to mark the historic victory.
Witnesses say the deceased, whose identity is being withheld, jumped on a motorcycle in euphoric celebration shortly after the final whistle and began riding recklessly, performing dangerous stunts. His joyride ended in tragedy when he crashed into a stationary truck parked by the roadside.
He was rushed to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Kiira Region Police spokesperson James Mubi confirmed the accident and urged the public to celebrate responsibly.
“While football unites communities and brings joy to many, celebrations must not endanger lives or disrupt public order,” SP Mubi said in a previous statement addressing similar incidents.
The 3-0 home win marked a major milestone for Arsenal, putting them in a strong position to eliminate the defending champions and advance to the semi-finals. With no Champions League title in their history—despite reaching the 2006 final—Arsenal fans have shown overwhelming enthusiasm, particularly across Uganda.
But this latest fatality has reignited concern over excessive and sometimes chaotic celebrations by local fans.
In 2023, multiple Arsenal supporters in Jinja City were arrested after an unauthorized street procession celebrating a Premier League win over Manchester United. The procession, which included drums, club colors, and chants, was broken up by police for lack of clearance.
Other tragic incidents linked to football celebrations by Arsenal fans in Uganda include:
- A motorcycle crash in Arua resulting in one death
- A fatal stabbing in a fan altercation
- The shooting of John Ssenyonga, 26, by a private guard in Lukaya, Masaka District, after fan celebrations turned rowdy near a business premises
These incidents have raised red flags among local leaders and law enforcement.
Authorities continue to appeal to football fans to prioritize safety, avoid reckless behavior, and respect public order during matches.
As the investigation into Tuesday’s fatal joyride continues, police are expected to increase monitoring and enforcement around high-stakes football nights—especially with Arsenal now eyeing Champions League glory for the first time in club history.
