Missing high school football coach faces child pornography charges

November 25, 2025

A Virginia high school football coach who was initially reported missing is now being actively sought by authorities as a fugitive facing serious criminal charges. Travis Turner, a 46-year-old physical education teacher and head coach at Union High School, is wanted on 10 warrants related to child sexual abuse material possession and soliciting a minor online. When state police visited his residence last week as part of their investigation, he was not present, prompting an extensive search operation involving drones and rescue teams.

Who is affected

Travis Turner (the wanted coach)
Students at Union High School, particularly football team members
Wise County Public Schools administration and staff
Minor victims allegedly solicited by Turner
Parents and families in the Appalachia, Virginia community
Virginia State Police investigators

What action is being taken

Virginia State Police are actively searching for Turner using drones and search and rescue teams
The school district is cooperating with law enforcement
Turner has been placed on administrative leave and is barred from school property and student contact
Police have issued 10 warrants for Turner's arrest

Why it matters

This case involves serious allegations of child exploitation by a trusted authority figure who had regular access to minors through his roles as teacher and coach. The situation highlights vulnerabilities in school systems and the importance of safeguarding students from potential predators in positions of trust. The ongoing search for Turner as a fugitive also raises public safety concerns for the local community.

What's next

Additional charges against Turner are pending, according to police statements. The school district will continue cooperating with law enforcement as the legal process moves forward.

Read full article from source: BBC