
A family in Gitwamba village is reeling from shock and grief after a football-related argument turned fatal, leaving one man dead and another on the run. Police have launched a manhunt for James Mbugua, who is suspected of stabbing his cousin, Stephen Njoroge, to death following a dispute over the outcome of a Premier League match between Manchester United and Chelsea.
The incident occurred on Saturday night, September 20, shortly after Manchester United secured a win in the highly anticipated fixture. According to close relatives, the two cousins had been watching the game together when a disagreement escalated into a violent confrontation.
Witnesses say the argument intensified after the final whistle, with emotions running high. While the exact trigger remains unclear, family members believe the altercation was fueled by alcohol and heightened football rivalry.
“They were first cousins, watching football together. This has completely broken our hearts; we never expected something like this to happen,” said their uncle, speaking to KTN News.
Another relative added, “Alcohol can be dangerous. It can make someone act in ways they would never consider while sober. In fact, it can even make a person lose control.”
According to the police report, the suspect fled the scene immediately after the stabbing, leaving behind a devastated family and a shaken community. Officers from Kiambu County have since launched investigations and are pursuing leads to apprehend Mbugua.
The tragic incident has reignited concerns about the impact of substance abuse and unchecked aggression during social gatherings, particularly among young men.
This is not an isolated case. Just days earlier, police in Southern Tanzania reported a similar incident in Songwe Region, where a 28-year-old man was fatally stabbed during a heated debate over a Simba vs Yanga football match.
Such cases highlight the darker side of sports fanaticism and the urgent need for community awareness around conflict resolution and emotional regulation.
Stephen Njoroge’s death has left his family grappling with unimaginable loss. Described as close friends and relatives, the cousins had no known history of conflict, making the tragedy all the more painful.
Link to this News: https://www.tuko.co.ke/kenya/603793-kiambu-man-stabs-cousin-death-quarrel-man-u-v-chelsea-game/