BREAKING NEWS: BYU Cougars Head Coach Reportedly Kidnapped in Shocking Turn of Events

The BYU campus and the wider college football world have been rocked by a developing and deeply unsettling story: Head Coach Kalani Sitake, leader of the BYU Cougars football program, has reportedly been kidnapped under mysterious circumstances.

The incident, which law enforcement is treating as a possible abduction, occurred late Sunday evening, April 13th, following a team function held on the BYU campus. Coach Sitake, 49, had attended a leadership seminar with select players and university staff, and according to initial reports, left the facility around 9:15 p.m. to return home. He has not been seen or heard from since.

### Disappearance Confirmed

Coach Sitake’s absence was first noticed early Monday morning when he failed to show up for a scheduled team meeting and recruiting video call. Team coordinators attempted to contact him through multiple channels, but received no response. BYU Athletic Director Tom Holmoe confirmed the situation during a hastily arranged press conference Monday afternoon.

> “We are deeply concerned for Coach Sitake’s safety and well-being,” Holmoe stated. “This is completely out of character for him. The authorities have been notified, and we are working closely with law enforcement at every level to find him and bring him home safely.”

Provo Police Chief Janelle McArthur confirmed late Monday night that the case is being investigated as a potential kidnapping.

> “Coach Sitake’s vehicle was discovered abandoned on a remote frontage road near Y Mountain early Monday morning,” McArthur said. “His phone was located inside the car, powered off. There were no signs of a struggle, but there are elements that suggest this disappearance was not voluntary.”

The FBI has reportedly joined the investigation, citing the possible crossing of state lines and the high-profile nature of the case. No ransom demands or communications have been received as of Thursday morning.

### A Community in Shock

News of the coach’s disappearance has sent waves of anxiety and disbelief through the BYU community, where Sitake is not only a respected coach but also a beloved mentor, spiritual leader, and former player.

“This is not just a coach—we’re talking about someone who’s been the heart and soul of the program for nearly a decade,” said former BYU linebacker and current assistant coach Harvey Unga. “The team is devastated. We’re praying, staying strong, and trusting that he’ll come back to us.”

Sitake, who became the head coach of the Cougars in 2016, has led the team through one of its most successful eras in recent history, including multiple bowl victories and a high-profile entry into the Big 12 Conference. Known for his infectious energy, deep faith, and strong connection with players, his sudden disappearance has left a vacuum not only on the field, but in the broader Provo and Latter-day Saints communities.

Vigils were held Tuesday night on the BYU campus, where hundreds gathered to pray and show support for the Sitake family. Candles lit the steps outside LaVell Edwards Stadium, and signs reading “Bring Kalani Home” and “Faith Over Fear” were held aloft by students and fans alike.

### Suspicions and Theories

While police have not released any suspects or persons of interest, speculation is rampant both locally and across social media. Some believe the kidnapping could be connected to a disgruntled former player or staff member, while others suggest the involvement of external forces unhappy with BYU’s increasing national prominence in collegiate athletics.

A few online theorists have pointed to recent controversial recruiting battles and NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) disputes as possible motives, though authorities have dismissed such connections as premature and unfounded.

An anonymous booster familiar with the internal workings of BYU Athletics told *Deseret News*, “There’s been pressure, no doubt—both from within and outside the program. Kalani had a way of staying grounded through all of it, but you could tell he was carrying a lot.”

### Ongoing Investigation

Authorities have asked the public for any information that could assist in the investigation. Surveillance footage from nearby roads, traffic cams, and businesses is currently being reviewed. Drone sweeps and search-and-rescue operations have been deployed in the areas surrounding Provo Canyon and the Wasatch foothills, but so far no conclusive evidence has surfaced.

The Sitake family has issued a statement through BYU:

> “Our hearts are broken and full of fear, but we are holding onto hope and faith. Kalani is a man of deep conviction, strength, and love. We ask for your prayers and for privacy during this unimaginably difficult time.”

### The Football Season in Limbo

With the spring training calendar underway and the fall season looming, the program faces uncertainty. Associate Head Coach Ed Lamb has temporarily taken over day-to-day operations, but Holmoe has stated no permanent coaching decisions will be made until the situation is resolved.

“Football is not the priority right now,” Holmoe emphasized. “Kalani’s safe return is all that matters.”

Despite the turmoil, players and staff have vowed to stay unified. Team captain Isaac Rex said in a statement to reporters, “Coach Sitake always tells us to ‘fight the good fight.’ That’s what we’re going to do—for him.”

This story is still developing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Provo Police Department at (801) 555-1122 or the Utah FBI field office.