Victor Birch was well-known in the Mobile running community. He was known to run in marathons and triathlons. However, Birch's life was taken in a tragic crash in September 2022 when another vehicle sped over the center line and hit Birch's vehicle head-on.
State Rep. Chip Brown (R-Hollinger's Island) wants to keep Birch's memory alive by dedicating the bridge where the accident happened.
On Wednesday, the Theodore Industrial Canal Bridge will be dedicated as the "Victor Birch Memorial Bridge."
The Alabama State Route 93 bridge dedication was approved in the 2023 regular legislative session as House Joint Resolution 93, sponsored by Brown.
"Birch was a fitness advocate who competed in 16 different marathons and finished first in the inaugural race in Apalachicola, Florida," Brown stated in a press release. "He also qualified for the national Ironman Triathlon competition, which consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run.
"An avid runner, Birch was a member of several local running groups, including the Blue Bell Bombers, which he helped found. He also served as a mentor to many new runners and provided them with an endless source of encouragement and inspiration.
"A member of the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church parish council, Birch was much loved by the community he served and by his family."
Birch's brother, Erich Birch, told 1819 News his family is proud of the impact his brother made on those who knew him.
"Victor had much more of an impact on this community that any of us understood and this bridge underscores that so many people loved him and worked to get this done," Eric Burch explained.
The Birch family plans to attend a dedication event Wednesday at 10 a.m. The event will be near the bridge, also known as Rangeline Road.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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