UPDATE: Virginia authorities have issued an urgent arrest warrant for Travis Turner, the missing head coach of the undefeated Union High School Bears, in connection with a child pornography investigation. The Virginia State Police confirmed that Turner, aged 46, is wanted on five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor.
Turner vanished on Thursday, just as his team prepared for a crucial playoff game. His absence raised alarms within the community as the Bears, now boasting a perfect record of 12-0, went on to defeat the Graham H.S. G-Men 12-0 this past weekend, advancing in the Class 2 playoffs. They are set to face Ridgeview this Saturday afternoon, with the winner securing a spot in the state semifinals on December 6.
The situation took a dramatic turn when police revealed on Monday that they had sought to interview Turner as part of their investigation. VSP spokesperson Matthew Demlien clarified that last week’s police visit was not intended for an arrest, intensifying the mystery surrounding his disappearance.
Union High School, located in the remote southwest corner of Virginia, serves nearly 660 students and sits approximately 170 miles west of Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, and around 140 miles northeast of the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. The community is now on high alert as the investigation unfolds.
As authorities continue their search for Turner, this story remains developing. Stay tuned for updates as new information emerges.
