Travis Turner, 46, a former high school football coach in Appalachia, Virginia, has been missing since about Nov. 20 after reportedly walking into nearby woods with a firearm. Days after his disappearance, authorities announced charges alleging five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor. State police, search-and-rescue teams and the U.S. Marshals are searching the rugged area; the family says Turner left personal items and medications at home and insists he was not wanted when he disappeared. Court records tied to the investigation were ordered sealed on Dec. 9.
Virginia High School Coach Missing After Child-Pornography Charges — What We Know
Travis Lee Turner is seen while coaching. - WCYB
Travis Turner, a 46-year-old former high school football coach in Appalachia, Virginia, has been missing since approximately Nov. 20 after reportedly walking from his home into nearby wooded terrain carrying a firearm. Days after his disappearance, law enforcement announced charges alleging five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor.
What Happened
According to the family’s attorney, Turner left his residence on or around Thursday, Nov. 20 and “vanished into the woods” surrounding his home. Family members say he did not take his car or many personal items commonly required for daily life. Virginia State Police say officers were en route to speak with Turner when they arrived at his home and found him gone; warrants and formal criminal charges were announced several days later.
An aerial view of Appalachia, Virginia, is shown. - WCYB
Charges And Legal Status
Virginia State Police have confirmed five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor. The police later described Turner as a fugitive. Wise County court records connected to the investigation were ordered sealed on Dec. 9, according to local reporting.
“Criminal charges were not obtained against Turner until days after he failed to return home. He was not a fugitive nor wanted by law enforcement at the time he went missing,” said Adrian Collins, the family attorney. “His wife was not helping him escape; she was asking for help to find him.”
Search Efforts
Virginia State Police say they have deployed search-and-rescue teams, drones and K9 units in the area. The U.S. Marshals Service has posted a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to Turner’s whereabouts. Authorities continue to urge anyone with credible information to contact law enforcement.
Travis Lee Turner was last ween wearing a gray sweatshirt and sweatpants and glasses, according to Virginia State Police. - Virginia State Police
Family And Personal Details
The family, through their attorney, says Turner's houses and properties have been searched with consent. They report Turner left behind his car and keys, contact lenses, glasses, wallet, license, cash and prescribed daily medications he needs. The family describes his disappearance as out of character and has asked him to return home to face the allegations in court.
Community And School Response
Turner had been listed on the Union High School staff roster as a physical education teacher in a listing later removed. The school district confirmed a staff member was on administrative leave and that Turner is barred from school property and from contact with students. In the small, tight-knit community, many residents and parents have publicly emphasized that student-athletes should not be targeted because of the allegations against their coach.
Search Challenges And Conditions
Search teams are operating in rugged Appalachian terrain of dense woods, valleys and ridgelines, which complicates efforts on foot. Investigators have also used technology such as drones with thermal sensors and motion detectors, though those tools can generate false positives in active areas. Weather since the disappearance has been warmer than normal with occasional light rain, according to meteorological reports — conditions that can affect both a person in the outdoors and the pace of search operations.
How You Can Help
- If you saw Turner on or after Nov. 20 — contact Virginia State Police or the U.S. Marshals with location details and timestamps.
- If you have digital evidence (messages, images, or relevant online activity), preserve it and provide it to investigators rather than sharing on social media.
- Respect sealed records and legal processes — avoid speculation that could hamper the investigation or the privacy of those involved.
Authorities and family members continue to ask for information and for the public to avoid harassment of students or community members as the investigation and search efforts proceed.
