A high school football coach in Virginia, whose undefeated team is on the verge of a championship playoff, has disappeared and is now the subject of a multi-state manhunt. Travis L. Turner, 46, is wanted on serious criminal charges related to child sexual abuse material.
The Charges and Disappearance
Virginia State Police announced on Tuesday, 25 November 2025, that they are seeking Turner on warrants obtained the previous Monday. The charges are severe: five counts of possessing child sexual abuse material and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor. Authorities have indicated that further charges are pending as their investigation continues.
The situation escalated last Thursday when special agents from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation went to Turner's home in Appalachia, Virginia. Their intention was not to arrest him at that moment but to speak with him as part of the ongoing inquiry. However, upon their arrival, they discovered he was already gone.
The Extensive Search Operation
Since his disappearance, a significant search operation has been launched in the surrounding area. Police have deployed a range of resources in an effort to locate the missing coach, including drones, search dogs, and specialised rescue teams. Despite these efforts, his whereabouts remain unknown.
Attempts to reach Turner for comment have been unsuccessful. A message was left at a phone number associated with him on Tuesday, and the local court confirmed it did not yet have a case docket that would list a legal representative for him.
Impact on the School and Undefeated Team
Turner is the football coach at Union High School in Wise County, southwest Virginia. Under his leadership, the team has had a remarkable season, securing 12 consecutive victories to remain undefeated. They are scheduled to play in a regional final this Saturday, a game now overshadowed by the scandal.
In response to the allegations, the Wise County Public Schools division has placed the staff member on administrative leave. Division Superintendent Mike Goforth stated in an email that the individual is not permitted on school property and is barred from any contact with students. The school district has declined to comment further, citing the ongoing legal nature of the personnel matter.
