BIG STONE GAP, Va. — Travis L. Turner, the football coach of Union High School in Wise County, Virginia, has vanished just days before his team’s playoff game, triggering serious concerns as he is sought by Virginia State Police on multiple charges. These include possessing child sexual abuse material and using a computer to solicit a minor. Authorities issued warrants for Turner, who is now facing five counts of each charge, with more potential charges expected as the investigation unfolds.
Turner, 46, had been missing since last Thursday when police went to his home to speak with him regarding the investigation. Instead, he was already gone, prompting an extensive search that included the use of drones and search dogs. As of now, details surrounding the specific allegations against him remain undisclosed.
Union High School, where Turner led the football team to an impressive 12-0 record, is preparing for a crucial game this Saturday. While he is absent, defensive coordinator Jason Edwards has stepped up as the interim head coach. This situation has left players and the school community in shock, with one senior running back emphasizing the importance of unity amidst adversity.
Before his coaching career, Turner was a quarterback at Appalachia High School. His father, Tom Turner, who coached him, is a Virginia High School Hall of Fame inductee. Turner’s past athletic accomplishments include being a part of the Virginia Tech recruiting class in 1998 and playing at the University of Virginia Wise.
In response to the charges, Wise County Public Schools has acknowledged the ongoing legal issue involving a staff member on administrative leave. Superintendent Mike Goforth confirmed that the individual is prohibited from being on school property or contacting students. The school is refraining from any further comments due to the legal implications of the situation.
Turner, 46, had been missing since last Thursday when police went to his home to speak with him regarding the investigation. Instead, he was already gone, prompting an extensive search that included the use of drones and search dogs. As of now, details surrounding the specific allegations against him remain undisclosed.
Union High School, where Turner led the football team to an impressive 12-0 record, is preparing for a crucial game this Saturday. While he is absent, defensive coordinator Jason Edwards has stepped up as the interim head coach. This situation has left players and the school community in shock, with one senior running back emphasizing the importance of unity amidst adversity.
Before his coaching career, Turner was a quarterback at Appalachia High School. His father, Tom Turner, who coached him, is a Virginia High School Hall of Fame inductee. Turner’s past athletic accomplishments include being a part of the Virginia Tech recruiting class in 1998 and playing at the University of Virginia Wise.
In response to the charges, Wise County Public Schools has acknowledged the ongoing legal issue involving a staff member on administrative leave. Superintendent Mike Goforth confirmed that the individual is prohibited from being on school property or contacting students. The school is refraining from any further comments due to the legal implications of the situation.
