Union High School Coach Missing: Warrants Issued, VSP Launches Investigation

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In a developing story out of Big Stone Gap, Virginia, the State Police have announced that 10 warrants have been issued for Travis Turner, the missing football coach from Union High School.

Travis Turner, aged 46 and a resident of Appalachia, Virginia, is currently wanted by authorities. The Virginia State Police revealed this information in a press release, indicating that a concerted effort is underway to locate him.

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“Police are actively searching for Turner,” the statement from VSP read. Their search has been extensive, deploying search and rescue teams, drones, and K9 units in hopes of finding him. The primary goal remains to ensure Turner’s safe recovery, although he is now officially classified as a fugitive.

Further charges against Turner may be forthcoming, as per the ongoing investigation by the VSP. The community remains on edge as the search efforts continue.

Anyone with information on Turner’s whereabouts is asked to contact VSP by calling 276-484-9483 or emailing questions@vsp.virginia.gov. Tips can be made anonymously.

“On Thursday, November 20, 2025, as part of the early stages of an investigation, VSP Special Agents from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation Wytheville Field Office were sent to Turner’s residence in Appalachia, located in Wise County,” VSP stated. “This was part of the investigation, and not to arrest him. While in transit, the agents were informed that Turner was no longer at the location.”

Superintendent of Wise County Public Schools Mike Goforth also provided News Channel 11 with a statement on Tuesday after VSP announced the warrants had been issued. It can be read below:

“Wise County Public Schools is aware that law enforcement has filed charges against a staff member who has been on administrative leave. The individual remains on leave and is not permitted on school property or to have contact with students. The division will continue to cooperate with law enforcement as this process moves forward. Because this is an active legal matter involving personnel, the division cannot comment further.”

Virginia State Police Spokesperson Robin Lawson provided the video statement below to News Channel 11 regarding Turner.

Attorney Adrian Collins (AJC Law) for the Turner Family issued the following statement:

“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.”

Brett Hall, the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Wise County and the City of Norton also released a statement on Tuesday regarding Turner’s charges:

“My office is aware of the ongoing investigation pertaining to charges against Union High School’s head football coach, Travis Turner, of Appalachia, Virginia. Per the Virginia Rules of Profesisonal Conduct set forth by the Virginia State Bar, we are not allowed to comment any further at this time.”