Covington Teen and Alleghany High School Football Star Owen Burch, 17, Dies Following Mental Health Battle, Survived by Parents Matt and Kristin
November 10, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on November 10, 2026
The Covington, Virginia, community mourns the untimely death of high school athlete and native, Owen Burch.
According to loved ones, Owen Burch passed away on Saturday, November 8, 2026, at the age of 17 after struggling with mental health challenges. However, the details surrounding his death have not yet been disclosed.
Owen Burch touched the lives of many with his exceptional athletic skills and his kind, cheerful nature.
Born on February 2, 2008, Owen Burch began his athletic career from a very young age.
Owen Burch, a standout at Alleghany High School, was set to graduate in 2026 and had a remarkable athletic journey marked by dedication and achievement.
Wearing jersey #75, Owen played multiple positions on the offensive and defensive lines, including center, nose guard, and tackle.
Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 330 pounds as a senior, he combined size, strength, and skill to be a cornerstone of his team.
From his freshman year in 2026, when he helped Alleghany achieve a 6-5 record, to his senior season in 2026, Owen contributed to multiple winning campaigns, including an 11-1 record with an undefeated 6-0 region finish.
Recognized for his leadership and athletic prowess, he also attracted attention from colleges such as Chowan University, Ferrum College, Roanoke College, Mary Baldwin University, and Bridgewater College, with interests in criminal justice and education.
Throughout his high school career, Owen’s dedication to football, his teammates, and his school left a lasting impact on the Alleghany community.
Social Media is Filled With Heartfelt Tributes to Late Owen Burch
The untimely death of Owen Burch has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and loved ones.
Many of his loved ones are paying tribute to Owen on social media, recalling his memories and extending their heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.
One wrote:
“I love you forever Owen I’m so sorry I will forever remember you imma get a tattoo for you as soon as I can you will be with me everywhere I promise you always said you were proud of me and that I was the strongest person you knew and imma show you Imma be that person and I’m gonna make you proud I Will always be here for your mom and sister I promise.”
Another added:
“Praying for his family and all his friends and the community who are missing him so dearly tonite and during the times of healing to come. Tomorrow isn’t promised to any of us, so let your loved ones know you love them. Fly high Owen Burch!”
Margo PriorOwen Dean Burch was the beloved son of Matthew ‘Matt’ Burch and Kirstin Vass and a proud brother to his younger sister.
His mother, Kirstin, is an alumna of Allegany High School and has been serving as the school nurse manager in Alleghany Highlands Public School since 2017. She served as the school nurse at Mountain View Elementary School.
graduated from Dabney S. Lancaster Community College in 2012 with an associate degree in nursing. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Liberty University’s online program in 2016.
Likewise, Owen’s father, Matt Burch, is swing manager at RaceTrac and previously worked at Brian Center. Like his mother, his father, Matt, is also a graduate of Alleghany High School and Dabney S. Lancaster Community College.
In addition to his parents, Owen is survived by his stepfather, Matt Vass, as well as his uncles, aunts, cousins, and the entire family.
Owen Burch’s contributions to the community, both as a remarkable athlete and through his kind nature, will always be remembered.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Owen Burch’s family will soon provide details about his funeral and memorial services.
- He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Sandra Snead Burch.
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Suruchi is a business management student with a strong passion for writing, particularly when it comes to sports. She loves creating articles and blogs that explore various aspects of the sports world. With a curious mind and a love for both academics and creativity, she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and share her insights through her writing.
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