by Appalachia, Virginia — A Virginia high school football coach is now wanted by authorities on charges of possessing child sexual abuse material and using a computer to solicit a minor, days before his undefeated team’s playoff matchup, state police confirmed Tuesday.
Wanted: Travis Turner
The Virginia State Police obtained warrants on Monday for 46-year-old Travis L. Turner, of Appalachia, on five counts of each offense. Officials indicated that additional charges are expected as the investigation continues, though details on what prompted the inquiry have not been released.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Turner’s whereabouts to contact law enforcement immediately. Attempts to reach Turner through a phone number associated with him were unsuccessful, and he does not yet have an attorney listed in court records.
Disappearance Before Playoff Game
Turner, who serves as the head football coach at Union High School in Wise County, has been missing since last Thursday. According to police, special agents from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation visited his home intending to interview him as part of the investigation, not to arrest him. However, they discovered that Turner had already left the area.
Since then, authorities have conducted searches using dogs, drones, and ground teams, though they have not disclosed whether they believe Turner remains in the vicinity.
Union High Football Amid Turmoil
Union High School’s football team has maintained an impressive 12-0 record and is scheduled to play in a regional final on Saturday. In Turner’s absence, defensive coordinator Jason Edwards has stepped in as interim head coach. Players have declined to comment extensively on Turner’s disappearance, focusing instead on team unity.
Senior running back Keith Chandler told local media:
“We talked in the huddle, and we said: ‘Listen boys, we’re going to have to handle adversity here. We stick together as brothers here, and we should come out with the victory.’”
Turner’s Football Background
Football runs deep in Turner’s family. He was a standout quarterback at Appalachia High School, which merged into Union High in 2011. His father, Tom Turner, coached him there and was inducted into the Virginia High School Hall of Fame in 2005.
Turner was also part of Virginia Tech’s 1998 recruiting class alongside future NFL quarterback Michael Vick and later played at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise in 1999. His athletic legacy and coaching career have made his current legal troubles especially notable in the local football community.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active as authorities continue to search for Turner and gather evidence. State police have not released further details about the nature of the allegations, emphasizing that public safety and the welfare of minors are the primary concerns.
Have You Seen Travis Turner?
If you have information regarding the whereabouts of Travis Turner in Appalachia, Virginia, contact authorities immediately. Share your thoughts or insights on this developing story in the comments below to help raise awareness and support public safety.
