Travis Turner Vanishes Days Before Playoff Game, 10 Felony Warrants Issued as Virginia Police Launch Massive Manhunt

Travis Turner, the head football coach at Union High School in southwest Virginia, has become a fugitive. The 46-year-old coach from Appalachia disappeared on November 20 just days before his undefeated team’s playoff game. Virginia State Police announced 10 felony warrants for his arrest on Tuesday, November 25.

Coach Turner Vanishes Amid Undefeated Season

Travis Turner served as the head football coach at Union High School in Big Stone Gap, located in Wise County in southwest Virginia. The school sits approximately 35 miles northwest of Bristol, Tennessee, near the Kentucky border. Turner taught physical education while leading the Bears to an impressive 12-0 record during the 2025 season.

On Thursday, November 20, Virginia State Police’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation sent agents to Turner’s residence in Wise County. Officers intended to speak with Turner as part of an ongoing investigation, not to arrest him. However, upon arrival, agents learned that Turner was no longer at the location. The sudden disappearance triggered an extensive search operation across the region.

Virginia State Police Issues 10 Felony Warrants on November 25

On Monday, November 24, Virginia State Police obtained 10 felony warrants for Travis Turner. The warrants specifically charge him with 5 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material and 5 counts of using a computer to solicit a minor. State police announced these charges publicly on Tuesday, November 25, and confirmed that Turner is now considered a fugitive.

Police stated that additional charges remain pending as the investigation continues. The agency declined to disclose what initially prompted the investigation or whether the alleged crimes involved students or athletes. Officials have not confirmed if there are one or multiple victims in the case.

Charge Category	Count
Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material	5 counts
Using Computer to Solicit a Minor	5 counts
Total Warrants	10 felony warrants
Status	Armed and Dangerous Fugitive

Extensive Search Underway With Helicopters and K9 Units

Since Turner’s disappearance on November 20, Virginia State Police have deployed significant resources to locate him. The search operation includes search and rescue teams, drones, and K9 drug dogs trained to track individuals. Police stated that locating Turner safely remains their main priority, though they acknowledge his fugitive status and possible danger.

Officers are actively gathering leads and investigating all potential locations where Turner might be hiding. The Virginia State Police Division 4 is urging the public to contact them with any information regarding Turner’s whereabouts. An anonymous tip line has been established at 276-484-9483, and individuals can email [email protected] with any details.

“Police are actively searching for Turner. Since his disappearance, VSP has utilized a number of assets, including search and rescue teams, drones and k9s, to assist in the search. VSP’s main priority is locating Turner safely; he is now considered a fugitive.”

— Virginia State Police, Official Statement

Union High School Continues Season Despite Coach’s Disappearance

Turner had coached at Union High School since 2011, following the merger of Appalachia High School with the district. Before his current position, Turner served as a quarterback at Appalachia High School under his father, Tom Turner, who was inducted into the Virginia High School Football Hall of Fame in 2005. His football legacy in the region spans decades.

Despite the dramatic circumstances surrounding Turner’s disappearance, the Union High School Bears advanced to the regional final after defeating Graham in a semifinal game just two days after Turner went missing. Defensive coordinator Jason Edwards stepped in as interim head coach to lead the team. Players expressed reluctance to discuss the situation involving their head coach, according to reporting from the Bristol Herald Courier.

What Comes Next for Union High School and the Investigation?

Wise County Public Schools superintendent Mike Goforth confirmed that Turner has been placed on administrative leave and is prohibited from school property and contact with students. The district refused to disclose when the leave began or the specific reasons, citing the ongoing legal matter. The school division stated it would continue cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation progresses.

Turner is described as a white male standing 6 feet 3 inches tall, weighing 260 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt, sweatpants, and glasses on November 20. Anyone spotting someone matching this description is urged to contact law enforcement immediately. Additional charges remain pending as investigators continue building their case against the fugitive coach.

Sources

• ESPN – Coverage of missing high school football coach wanted on criminal charges
• USA TODAY – Reporting on Travis Turner’s charges and fugitive status
• Los Angeles Times – Documentation of arrest warrants and search efforts