BIG STONE GAP, Va. — The Virginia State Police are currently conducting a search for Travis L. Turner, a high school football coach whose undefeated team is set for a playoff game. The 46-year-old, from Appalachia, Virginia, has been charged with possessing child sexual abuse material and using a computer to solicit a minor. The police have obtained warrants for five counts of each charge as they continue their investigation into the matter.
Turner has been missing since last Thursday after special agents were sent to his home as part of a conversation regarding the ongoing investigation. Instead of making an arrest, the police were informed upon arrival that he had left. Search efforts have engaged drones, tracking dogs, and rescue teams to locate him.
The Associated Press attempted to reach Turner for comment, but no response has been received at the listed number, nor has a legal representative been disclosed. Turner, who is coaching Union High School's football team in Wise County, has led the squad to an impressive 12 consecutive victories this season, with a regional final game scheduled for Saturday.
Prior to his coaching role, Turner played quarterback at Appalachia High School, which merged into Union High School in 2011. His father, Tom Turner, was a notable high school football coach and was inducted into the Virginia High School Hall of Fame.
Turner was also part of Virginia Tech’s recruiting class in 1998 and played for the University of Virginia Wise the following year. As the situation escalates, the school's defensive coordinator, Jason Edwards, has stepped in as interim head coach, leading the team in recent games. Players have expressed a desire to maintain focus on their performance amid the troubling unfolding events.
Division Superintendent Mike Goforth confirmed in a statement that the school is aware of the charges against Turner, who has been placed on administrative leave and barred from school property and student interaction. Due to ongoing legal proceedings, further comments from Wise County Public Schools have not been made.
