Missing Virginia Coach Wanted on Child‑Porn Charges as Search Expands in Appalachian Woods

An undefeated rural Virginia high school football team recently won a regional semifinal without its head coach after authorities said he was missing. State police have since announced that Union High School coach Travis Turner is wanted on five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor, and search teams are scouring rugged terrain near his home.

Timeline and charges

Investigators visited Turner’s home in Appalachia, a western Virginia town of fewer than 2,000 residents, on November 20 and were told he was not at home. Authorities later obtained warrants and publicly announced the charges the following day. Officials have not released additional details about the evidence supporting the warrants.

Search operations and conditions

Law enforcement has deployed search-and-rescue teams, police dogs and drones to locate Turner. Officials have described the surrounding area as a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains with dense forest, steep ridges and variable elevations, which complicates ground searches. Investigators may use motion sensors, heat-sensing drones and other technology to support the effort, though such tools can produce many false signals and require time to analyze.

Weather is also a factor: the region has seen warmer-than-normal days since the search began, with periods of light rain. Forecasters warned of a colder stretch with near-freezing daytime highs and subfreezing nights later in the week, introducing the potential for icy conditions that could affect both the search and anyone sheltering outdoors.

Local response and school status

Union High School listed Turner as a physical education teacher; that entry has since been removed and the district confirmed he has been placed on administrative leave. The superintendent has barred Turner from campus and from contact with students while the investigation continues.

Community members gathered in a prayer circle before a recent playoff game as friends, parents and neighbors reacted with concern and hope for answers. A local pastor said the community is trying to be bigger than the situation as people wait for more information.

Family statement and background

Turner’s family released a statement through their attorney asking for privacy and saying they are prayerful for his safe return, and that any allegations should be addressed through the legal process rather than through speculation.

Turner grew up in the area and played high school and college football locally before beginning his coaching career, which included a stint as head coach at Powell Valley High School prior to coaching at Union High.

Next steps

The Union High team is scheduled to play a regional final against Ridgeview; if they win, they would advance to the Class 2 state semifinal on December 6. Authorities continue to request anyone with relevant information to contact law enforcement as the search and investigation proceed.