Urgent Search for Missing Coach Travis Turner Amid Child Allegations

UPDATE: Missing Virginia high school football coach Travis Turner has vanished into a heavily wooded area while under investigation for serious child sex allegations, his family revealed today. Last seen leaving his home in Big Stone Gap, Virginia on November 20, Turner reportedly took a firearm with him before disappearing.

Authorities confirm Turner was being investigated for five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor. Police were en route to question him when he vanished. “The last known contact the family had with Travis occurred on or about November 20, after he left his residence to walk in the woods with a firearm,” said family attorney Adrian Collins in a statement to WJLA.

Collins refuted claims of outstanding arrest warrants, clarifying that no warrants had been issued for the 46-year-old at the time of his disappearance. “He is believed to have entered a heavily wooded and mountainous area,” Collins added, stressing that the family is actively cooperating with law enforcement in the ongoing search.

Turner was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt and sweatpants, prompting his wife, Leslie Turner, to report him missing on November 21 after he failed to return home. “The family has cooperated fully with law enforcement in their efforts to locate Travis,” Collins stated, as they conducted their own search amidst challenging weather conditions.

The disturbing allegations against Turner have shocked the community, with his family defending his character. They describe him as a “good dad and a good husband.” Turner has worked at Union High School for over 11 years, serving as a coach and physical education teacher. Following his disappearance, Wise County Public Schools placed him on paid administrative leave, and his profile has been removed from their website.

In a troubling twist, rumors circulated about Turner carrying a rifle before he went missing, but Leslie Turner declined to comment on such claims. “It is the family’s prayer that Travis is safe and will have the opportunity to defend himself in a court of law,” Collins stated, highlighting the emotional toll on the family.

This developing story raises urgent questions about Turner’s whereabouts and the nature of the allegations against him. The community remains on high alert as family members continue their search, hoping for a resolution soon.

As authorities intensify their search efforts, the case underscores the serious implications of child protection and the swift actions needed in such alarming situations. Further updates are expected as the investigation unfolds.