A Virginia football coach has mysteriously disappeared after a shocking investigation emerged.
State police say 46‑year‑old Travis Turner vanished last week. They learned Thursday that he was missing while heading to his home in the town of Appalachia, Virginia, population under 2,000, as part of a probe they had kept largely under wraps.
Turner, head football coach at Union High School, is being sought on five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor after authorities obtained ten warrants Monday. He remains at large and is considered a fugitive.
Before his disappearance, the team he coached stood undefeated and was preparing for a playoff game. The squad won that game Saturday without him and advanced to the regional finals. Turner, who also served as a physical education teacher, was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt, sweatpants, and glasses.
“Wise County Public Schools is aware that law enforcement has filed charges against a staff member who has been on administrative leave,” Superintendent Mike Goforth told CNN. “The individual remains on leave and is not permitted on school property or to have contact with students.” The district says it will cooperate with investigators.
When reached, Turner’s wife issued a statement to CNN via family attorney Adrian Collins: “We remain prayerful for his safe return and for everyone 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.”
Authorities say search & rescue teams, drones, and police dogs are being used in efforts to locate Turner.
