UPDATE: Search efforts are intensifying for missing Virginia high school football coach Travis Turner, who disappeared into a heavily wooded area on November 20, 2023, after leaving home with a firearm. This alarming situation follows serious allegations of child sexual misconduct against him, including five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of soliciting minors using a computer, according to the investigation.
Authorities were reportedly on their way to his residence in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, to question him regarding these accusations when he vanished. His family attorney, Adrian Collins, confirmed that Turner last communicated with family members on the same day he left home.
“He is believed to have entered a heavily wooded and mountainous area. At which point, no warrants had been issued for his arrest,” Collins stated.
Turner, who has served as head coach at Union High School for over a decade, was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt and sweatpants. His wife, Leslie Turner, reported him missing after he failed to return home that night, leading to a missing-person report filed with the Virginia State Police on November 21.
Collins also refuted claims that authorities had issued ten warrants for Turner’s arrest, emphasizing that the investigation is ongoing. Despite the grave allegations, his family has publicly defended him, describing Turner as a “good dad and a good husband.” They have initiated their own search efforts in the woods, hampered by poor weather conditions.
Wise County Public Schools placed Turner on paid administrative leave following the allegations, and his profile has since been removed from the school’s website. The only Turner remaining listed is his son, Bailey Turner, also employed by the district.
As the search continues, Collins expressed hope for Turner’s safe return, stating, “It is the family’s prayer that Travis is safe and will have the opportunity to defend himself in a court of law.” The family remains committed to cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation unfolds.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. The community is urged to report any information regarding Turner’s whereabouts to local authorities immediately.
