Timothy Magambo’s Remains Return to Uganda Following New York Drowning

KAMPALA, Uganda – The remains of Timothy Magambo, the son of Uganda’s Assistant Inspector General of Police, Tom Magambo, have arrived back in the country after he tragically drowned in New York earlier this month.

Timothy, an 18-year-old freshman at the University at Albany, drowned on May 16 while swimming off Shelter Island, New York. He had been airlifted to hospitals but later succumbed to his injuries. Having moved from Uganda at the age of seven, Timothy grew up in Pelham, New York.

According to a statement from Barugahara Balaam Ateenyi, speaking on behalf of the family, the body arrived in Uganda at 2:00 am on the morning of the announcement.

“On behalf of Atwooki @Tom_Magambo, Director CID of the @PoliceUg, I wish to inform friends, relatives, and well-wishers that we this morning at 2:00am received the remains of our beloved son, Magambo Timothy, who tragically drowned last week in the USA,” the statement read.

Funeral Arrangements

A requiem Holy Mass is scheduled for today at 9:00 am at Mbuya Catholic Parish in Kampala. Following the service, the body will be transported to Masindi Municipality, specifically to Kisarabwire Village, where a vigil will be held on Wednesday at the family home of the senior police officer.

Burial will take place on Thursday at 2:00 pm in Kisarabwire, Masindi, approximately 2 kilometers from Masindi Municipality.

Tributes and Condolences

Timothy is being remembered as a kind, athletic young man who volunteered at Sanyu Babies’ Home. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the children’s home in his memory.

Despite his profound loss, Assistant Inspector General Tom Magambo continues to carry out his police duties. His colleagues and well-wishers have offered an outpouring of support.

“We sincerely thank all those who have supported and stood with Afande @Tom_Magambo and the entire family during this difficult time. May God bless you abundantly,” Barugahara added, closing with a biblical verse: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18.