Timeline: The search for fugitive coach Travis Turner
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BIG STONE GAP, Va. (WJHL) — Travis Turner, the football coach at Union High School, is currently a fugitive facing charges related to child pornography. His last known sighting was on Thursday, November 20, and efforts to locate him are ongoing.

The Virginia State Police (VSP) urge anyone who might have information on Turner’s location to contact them at 276-484-9483.

The combination of Turner’s disappearance and the serious charges against him has captured nationwide attention. News Channel 11 has compiled a detailed timeline of developments in this unfolding case.

Thursday, Nov. 20

According to the VSP, Turner’s last known appearance was on November 20. State police had dispatched agents to his residence in Appalachia as part of their investigation, but they did not intend to detain him at that time.

However, while en route to Turner’s home, the agents were informed that he was no longer present at the location.

Turner was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt, sweatpants and glasses.

Saturday, Nov. 22

Authorities continued to search for Turner.

VSP confirmed Turner is the head football coach at Union High School. State police told News Channel they utilized drones, K-9 units and search parties to look in the general area of Turner’s home.

News Channel 11 saw search operations on Saturday, which included groups of law enforcement and bloodhounds.

Wise County Public Schools Superintendent Mike Goforth also confirmed that Union’s football coaching responsibilities had been transferred for that day’s game.

Sunday, Nov. 23

News Channel 11 learned that Turner had been officially listed in the VSP database for missing persons.

Monday, Nov. 24

News Channel 11 crews drove around Wise County and were unable to find anything resembling a command post or large-scale search operations. VSP stated the search for Turner was still active and ongoing.

Tuesday, Nov. 25

State police announced 10 warrants had been issued for Turner’s arrest. According to VSP, Turner faces five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor.

VSP also stated Turner was considered a fugitive as of Nov. 25 and that more charges are pending.

State police provided a video statement on the latest in the search for Turner, and Goforth and Wise County Commonwealth’s Attorney Brett Hall each provided statements of their own.

An attorney for the Turner family also issued a statement, saying the family was hoping for his safe return and would not be taking any questions.

“I speak today on behalf of Coach Turner’s family. We remain prayerful for his safe return and for everyone affected by the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. We trust God to bring truth and clarity in His time. Any allegations should be addressed through the proper legal process—not through speculation or rumor. We ask the public and media to show compassion, accuracy, and respect for the family’s privacy. No questions will be taken.”

Adrian Collins (AJC Law), attorney for the Turner family

Wednesday, Nov. 26

News Channel 11 reached out to VSP for any updates on Wednesday but was told there was no additional information to share, as of 12:43 p.m.

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