Virginia State Police have launched an active manhunt for Union High School football coach Travis L. Turner, 46, who vanished from his home in Appalachia, Virginia, last week.
According to Fox News, authorities confirmed on Tuesday that Turner has been declared a fugitive.
Troopers obtained 10 warrants on Monday, charging Turner with five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor.
Turner was reported missing on Friday, Nov. 21, a day after special agents visited his home as part of an early-stage investigation. Authorities said the visit was not intended to result in an arrest.
Since his disappearance, the Virginia State Police have mobilized search and rescue teams, drones, and K-9 units across multiple jurisdictions.
“Our main priority is locating Turner safely,” the department said in a statement. They urged anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact Virginia State Police Division 4 or submit tips anonymously.
A video from the Union Sports Network’s Instagram feed has surfaced, showing Turner’s last known public appearance. The interview took place on-field at Bullet Park in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, on Nov. 15, following Union’s 40–7 victory over Lehigh in the Region 2D quarterfinals. Turner praised his players’ resilience.
“I thought our kids adjusted, played hard, and overcame some adversity. There was no panic. We just continued the course and played football,” he said.
At the time, Union High remained undefeated and was preparing to face defending state champion Graham High School.
“They’re super athletic, and we’ve played each other 15 or 16 times now,” Turner added. “It’s going to be a battle, and our kids will be ready.”
Turner’s disappearance has shocked the rural community.
Wise County Public Schools confirmed that an unnamed staff member had been placed on administrative leave with pay while an external allegation was investigated, but did not confirm whether it involved Turner.
Superintendent Dr. Mike Goforth said, “This is standard procedure and is not a determination of wrongdoing.”
Turner’s wife posted a message on Facebook before deleting it, saying, “We love him and need him here with us. Just keep praying that he comes home.”
Turner hails from a prominent football family. His late father, Tom Turner, coached at Apalachee High School and won five state championships during a 26-year career before passing away in 2006.
