A large-scale search effort is currently underway for Travis L. Turner, the 46-year-old head coach of the Union High School Bears in Appalachia, Virginia. Turner has been unaccounted for since Thursday, November 20th, sparking widespread concern among his family, the football team, and the local community. As the search intensifies, officials are working tirelessly to locate him.
What Happened: Coach Turner’s Disappearance
Travis L. Turner was last seen near his residence on Thursday, November 20th, stepping into a nearby forested area dressed in a gray hoodie, gray joggers, and glasses. This was the last known sighting of him, and his disappearance quickly became a matter of great concern. On the same night, Virginia State Police (VSP) had arrived at his home as part of an ongoing investigation being conducted by the Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s Wytheville Field Office. However, Turner was not present when they arrived.
VSP officials clarified that their visit was not related to any criminal issues, and no accusations were made against Turner. The visit was simply an effort to follow up on the ongoing investigation. Despite the initial uncertainty, Turner was formally entered into the VSP’s missing persons database by Sunday, November 23rd, signaling a shift toward a more intensive search operation.
The Search Efforts: Drones and Search Crews in Action
Since Turner’s official entry into the missing persons database, the search for him has intensified. Drones have been deployed, and search crews are actively scouring the forested regions around Appalachia where Turner was last seen. VSP Officer Jason Day confirmed that search operations are continuing, with teams working diligently to locate the missing coach.
Despite the ongoing efforts, there has been no confirmed sighting of Turner since his disappearance. Law enforcement agencies are using every available resource to aid in the search, with drones providing aerial support and search teams combing the surrounding terrain.
Family and Community Support
Travis Turner’s wife, Leslie Caudill Turner, has shared her grief and plea for his return on social media. In a Facebook post, she wrote, “Travis is missing and that’s all we know. We love him and need him here with us.” The local community has rallied around the Turner family, offering support and encouragement. Friends, family, and community members have joined in the search efforts, and many are sending prayers for his safe recovery.
Turner’s Legacy with Union High School Bears
Under Travis Turner’s leadership, the Union High School Bears football team had an outstanding regular season, finishing with an undefeated 11-0 record. The team’s remarkable success was a testament to Turner’s dedication and coaching abilities. Despite his disappearance, the Bears were able to secure a playoff victory against Graham High School on Friday, November 22nd, under the guidance of long-time assistant coach Jay Edwards.
Turner’s influence on the team and the local community has been immense, and his absence has left a significant void. The Bears, along with the community, are holding onto hope for his safe return, knowing that his leadership and spirit have been vital to their success.
Ongoing Investigation and Administrative Action
In a separate development, Wise County schools have placed an unnamed employee on administrative leave as an external investigation is underway. While the specific details of this action remain unclear, it is not yet known if it is connected to Turner’s disappearance.
What’s Next: Search Continues
The search for Coach Travis L. Turner is ongoing, and both law enforcement and the community remain hopeful that he will be found safe. As the search continues, local authorities and the Turner family are calling for any information that may assist in locating the missing coach.
The community’s support and optimism persist as they hold on to the hope that Turner will be returned to them soon.
Closing
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
