Missing Virginia Coach Wanted on Child Pornography Charges

BIG STONE GAP, Va. — A Virginia high school football coach, Travis L. Turner, 46, is missing and wanted on multiple child pornography charges, according to the Virginia State Police.

Turner, who resides in Appalachia, Virginia, was last seen on November 20, days before his team’s playoff game. Virginia State Police announced they obtained ten warrants for him on Monday, which include five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor.

The police were on their way to speak with Turner as part of an investigation when they learned that he was not at his home. Since his disappearance, authorities have deployed search and rescue teams, drones, and K9 units to locate him. Police consider him a fugitive.

Turner is the head football coach at Union High School in Wise County, which is celebrating a perfect 12-0 season and is set to compete in the regional finals this Saturday. Defensive coordinator Jason Edwards has temporarily taken over the coaching duties.

Superintendent Mike Goforth confirmed that the Wise County Public Schools district is aware of the criminal charges against Turner. He stated that Turner has been on administrative leave and is not allowed on school property or to have contact with students. Goforth did not elaborate on when the leave began.

Before coaching at Union, Turner was a quarterback at Appalachia High School, which merged into Union High School in 2011. His father, Tom Turner, coached him there and has been inducted into the Virginia High School Hall of Fame.

The Turner family released a statement through their attorney, Adrian Collins, emphasizing their hope for his safe return and requesting privacy during this difficult time.

Anyone with information about Turner’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Virginia State Police Division 4 at 276-484-9483 or email them directly.