Missing Virginia high school football coach now considered a fugitive

Title: Virginia High School Football Coach Declared Fugitive Amid Child Pornography Investigation

In a shocking turn of events, Travis Lee Turner, the head football coach at Union High School in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, has been declared a fugitive following serious allegations against him. The Virginia State Police have issued 10 warrants for Turner’s arrest, which include five counts of possession of child pornography and another five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor. This week has seen extensive media coverage as the investigation unfolds, raising concerns within the local community and the educational system.

The alarm over Turner’s whereabouts began when he went missing shortly before his team was set to compete in a playoff game. The Virginia State Police initiated a search involving a variety of resources, including aerial drones, specialized search and rescue teams, and K9 units. Their primary focus has shifted towards locating Turner safely, emphasizing that he is now considered a fugitive. As the investigation progresses, authorities are leaving the door open for additional charges, indicating the seriousness of the situation.

The origin of the investigation dates back to November 20, when special agents from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation visited Turner’s home as part of preliminary inquiry procedures. According to the police statement, the visit was intended as an investigative measure rather than an arrest. However, the situation escalated when agents discovered that Turner had fled the location shortly after their arrival. This unexpected turn has sparked heightened urgency in the search efforts to bring Turner to justice.

In his capacity as a high school football coach, Turner has been a fixture in the community, having led the Union Bears since 2011. Under his guidance, the team recently maintained an undefeated record, improving to 12-0 after a decisive victory in a regional semifinal game just two days following his disappearance. This remarkable achievement makes the allegations against him even more shocking for both players and parents who looked up to him as a mentor and leader.

In response to the mounting legal concerns, Wise County Public Schools has placed Turner on administrative leave. The division superintendent, Mike Goforth, confirmed that Turner is prohibited from accessing school property or interacting with students during the ongoing investigation. While the school system cannot disclose specific details about personnel matters due to legal restrictions, they have committed to cooperating fully with law enforcement and are monitoring the situation closely.

As the community grapples with the implications of these serious charges, the urgency to locate Turner remains paramount. The police continue their extensive efforts to find him, while the educational and local communities strive to process the unsettling nature of these events. The outcome of this investigation will not only affect Turner’s future but also reverberate throughout the school and community that once held him in such high regard. As authorities seek justice for the victims purportedly involved, the case serves as a sobering reminder of the critical importance of vigilance in protecting the most vulnerable members of society, particularly minors.