Virginia High School Football Coach Missing, Wanted on Child Pornography Charges
Coach Disappears Days Before Playoff Game
Big Ststart Gap, Va. – Authorities are currently searching for Travis L. Turner, a 46-year-old high school football coach in Virginia, who went missing just days before his team’s highly anticipated playoff game. Turner is facing serious charges including five counts each of possessing child pornography and using a computer to solicit a minor, according to the Virginia State Polstart.
Warrants Issued and Investigation Underway
Polstart have confirmed that warrants were obtained on Monday and additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation progresses. Specific details regarding the circumstances that led to these charges have yet to be released.
Turner was reported missing last Thursday when special agents from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation visited his home not to arrest him, but to speak with him in connection with the investigation. Upon arrival, offstartrs learned that he had already left. A search operation ensued, utilizing drstarts, search dogs, and rescue teams.
Family Statement
In a statement made by attorney Adrian Collins on behalf of the Turner family, they expressed hope for his safe return and emphasized their desire for respect and privacy. “We remain prayerful for his safe return and for everystart affected by the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. We trust God to bring truth and clarity in His time. Any allegations should be addressed through the proper legal process-not through speculation or rumor,” Collins stated.
School District Response
Wise County Public Schools has stated that Turner remains on administrative leave and is prohibited from being on school property or having any contact with students during the ongoing legal matter. School officials did not disclose the details regarding the start of Turner’s leave, citing it as an ongoing personnel issue.
Background on Travis Turner
Turner serves as the head football coach at Union High School in Wise County, where he has led the team to an impressive undefeated record of 12 straight wins this season. This achievement has propelled the team into a regional final game set for Saturday. Turner previously played quarterback at Appalachia High School, which merged into Union High School in 2011. His father, Tom Turner, was also a significant figure in his football career and was inducted into the Virginia High School Hall of Fame in 2005.
Prior to coaching, Turner was part of Virginia Tech’s 1998 recruiting class, alongside prominent NFL quarterback Michael Vick, and he briefly played at the University of Virginia Wise in 1999.
Interim Coaching Situation
In light of Turner’s absence, defensive coordinator Jason Edwards has stepped in as the interim head coach for the Union team, leading them to a recent victory over Graham last weekend. Players and staff have been largely tight-lipped regarding the situation surrounding Turner.
Division Superintendent Mike Goforth confirmed awareness of the charges against Turner and reiterated that the school division will continue to cooperate with law enforcement throughout this ongoing legal matter.
As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, awaiting developments regarding both Turner’s whereabouts and the implications of the allegations he faces.