Gulu City, Uganda: Police in Gulu have launched investigations into the sudden death of 70-year-old Otto Williams Laroo, who collapsed and died shortly after sharing a meal with family on Easter Sunday.
Laroo, a resident of Mulila Village in Nwoya District, had visited his elder brother Oketa Lapenga at Layik Cell, Agonga Ward in Laroo-Pece Division, in what began as a routine family visit.
According to police, he arrived at around 3:00 pm while already intoxicated, carrying a bottle of waragi and two sodas, and continued drinking throughout the evening.
At about 7:00 pm, he shared supper with his brother. However, within an hour, he was found unresponsive while seated.
“He was seen seated in a chair after supper, and shortly after, he was found unresponsive,” said Aswa West Police spokesperson David Ongom Mudong. “This prompted an immediate report to police, and a case of sudden death was registered.”
Police confirmed that the case has been recorded under reference D.E.F 03/2026 and is being treated as a priority.
“Our team, led by the District Police Commander and the Deputy CID Officer, visited the scene,” Mudong said. “We collected samples of the food and drinks that the deceased consumed, and statements have been recorded from relevant witnesses.”
He added: “The body was conveyed to Gulu Regional Referral Hospital for postmortem examination to establish the exact cause of death. At this point, we cannot speculate until scientific findings guide the investigation.”
The incident has sparked fear and speculation among residents, many describing the death as unusual. “It is frightening,” said one resident. “How does someone eat supper, sit down, and within an hour they are no more?”
Others pointed to increased alcohol consumption during Easter festivities but noted that such incidents are rare. “Yes, people drink during Easter, but this is different. That is why people are worried,” another resident said.
Local leaders have since urged calm, warning residents against spreading unverified claims as investigations continue. “We ask the community to remain patient and allow authorities to establish the truth,” a local elder said.
According to the Uganda Police Annual Crime Report (2025), cases of sudden death and unexplained fatalities remain a concern, often requiring detailed forensic investigation to determine causes ranging from natural conditions to possible poisoning or substance-related complications.
The report also highlights 755 cases of missing or unexplained incidents recorded in 2025, underscoring the importance of timely reporting and scientific analysis in resolving such cases.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
