Kakamega Homeboyz Midfielder Silas Abungana Dies After Alleged Family Attack
The Kenyan Premier League fraternity has been plunged into mourning following the tragic death of Kakamega Homeboyz midfielder Silas Abungana, who passed away after allegedly being attacked in a family dispute.
Abungana reportedly died from serious head injuries sustained during an altercation involving his younger brother. Sources close to the family claim the disagreement was linked to marital issues, with relatives said to have been pressuring the footballer to separate from his wife, whom they considered an unsuitable partner.
Succumbed to Injuries at Kakamega Hospital
In a statement released on Thursday, February 5, Kakamega Homeboyz confirmed that the midfielder passed away shortly before midnight on Wednesday, February 4, while receiving treatment at Kakamega County General Hospital.
The club revealed that Abungana had been admitted following the attack and was under medical care when his condition deteriorated.
“Kakamega Homeboyz Football Club is deeply devastated by the untimely demise of Silas Abungana,” the club said in part of the statement. “During this incredibly difficult time, we respectfully request privacy for Silas’ family, teammates, friends, and club officials as we come to terms with this unimaginable loss.”
Incident Happened Days After League Match
Reports indicate that the incident occurred on the night of Tuesday, February 3, only days after Abungana had featured for Homeboyz in a Premier League fixture against Mara Sugar FC.
The midfielder had recently joined the top-flight side from Gucha FC and had already made 10 appearances for the club this season, gradually establishing himself as a dependable figure in the squad.
Teammates say he trained normally in the days leading up to the match and showed no signs of distress, making the sudden tragedy even more shocking for the playing unit.
Alleged Family Dispute Turns Violent
Preliminary information suggests the confrontation stemmed from long-running disagreements within the family regarding Abungana’s marriage. Relatives allegedly felt his relationship was affecting family harmony and had urged him to end it.
What began as a domestic argument is said to have escalated into violence, leading to the fatal injuries. Police in Kakamega are understood to have launched investigations, though no official statement has yet been issued by law enforcement authorities.
Neighbours described Abungana as a calm and hardworking young man whose rise to the Premier League had inspired many youths in the region.
Football Community in Shock
News of the midfielder’s death spread quickly across Kenyan football circles, triggering an outpouring of grief from fans, players, and coaches.
Supporters of Kakamega Homeboyz flooded social media with condolence messages, remembering Abungana as a disciplined player with a promising future. Several FKF Premier League clubs also shared tributes, expressing solidarity with Homeboyz and the bereaved family.
At the time of publishing, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) had not yet released an official statement on the tragedy. Kakamega Homeboyz currently sit sixth on the FKF Premier League table, and the club now faces the difficult task of continuing the season while mourning one of their own.
Rising Career Cut Short
Abungana’s journey to the top tier had been one of determination. After impressing at Gucha FC in the lower leagues, he earned a move to Homeboyz at the start of the season, a step he described to friends as the realization of a lifelong dream.
Coaches at the club reportedly viewed him as a versatile midfielder with strong defensive discipline and an eye for forward passes. His performances in the opening matches had begun to win him regular minutes.
Former teammates from Gucha FC recalled his humility and commitment, saying he often supported younger players and believed education and football should go hand in hand.
Calls for Justice and Peace
The tragic circumstances surrounding Abungana’s death have reignited conversations about domestic conflicts and the need for non-violent dispute resolution within families.
Local leaders in Kakamega have appealed for calm as investigations continue, urging the public to avoid speculation and allow authorities to establish the facts.
Human rights advocates have also called for counselling support for the family and teammates, noting that such traumatic incidents have long-term psychological effects on those left behind.
Club Plans Tribute
Kakamega Homeboyz is expected to organize a memorial in honour of the fallen midfielder, with discussions underway on how to pay tribute during upcoming league matches.
Fans have suggested a minute of silence in the next FKF Premier League round, while others have proposed dedicating the remainder of the season to his memory.
As the football community mourns, one thing remains clear—Kenyan football has lost a young talent whose potential was yet to be fully realized.