5 Referees tragically murdered and brutally wounded in terrific acts of violence

Refereeing is meant to be a respected and important part of sports. But in some tragic cases, referees have lost their lives just for doing their job.

Here are five shocking stories where referees were murdered in terrible circumstances.

1. Patrick Ngalamulume – DRC (2025)

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In May 2025, a horrifying incident happened in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. A well-known local referee, Patrick Ngalamulume, popularly known as “Ngalas,” was accused of theft without any proof.

Pulse Ghana reported that a crowd in the Irambo area attacked him, beat him badly, and then set him on fire. Emergency services did not arrive in time to save him.

Ngalas, 36, was respected in the local football community and had no criminal record. His death highlights the growing insecurity and lawlessness in parts of eastern Congo.

2. Cesar Flores – Argentina (2016)

3. John Bieniewicz – USA (2014)

4. Octavio da Silva – Brazil (2013)

5. Boxing referee – Croatia (2014)