Authorities in Virginia say the search for former high school coach Travis Turner remains active months after he disappeared into nearby woods while facing serious criminal charges.
Virginia State Police say the 46-year-old former Union High School football coach has been missing since November 20, 2025. According to investigators, Turner’s family reported that he left his home that day and walked into the woods carrying a firearm. Since then, state police have coordinated an extensive search effort while also continuing a criminal investigation connected to the case.
Search teams have deployed drones, K9 units, and rescue crews across the area in an effort to locate Turner. Despite those efforts, authorities say they have not found any confirmed trace of him. Investigators also report that they have reviewed a large number of tips and leads that came in from both inside and outside the United States.
“This case is worked on every day. It’s two-fold: we have the criminal investigation and the search,” Captain J. Daniels with Virginia State Police said, according to WDBJ7.
“Every single lead has been vetted and followed up on, and all have been unfounded. We need the public to continue providing information. Someone knows something that will lead to his whereabouts.”
Turner is wanted by Virginia State Police on multiple felony charges, including five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor. Investigators allege he sent explicit messages to a 16-year-old girl over a three-month period.
Authorities say 178 national and international leads have been investigated so far. Meanwhile, Turner’s family previously stated he left his car and keys behind at home, along with his wallet, identification, glasses, contact lenses, cash, and prescribed daily medications.
Officials say a reward of up to $5,000 is available for information that helps locate Turner. Virginia State Police ask anyone with information to contact investigators at (276) 484-9483 or email questions@vsp.virginia.gov.
