The Virginia State Police (VSP) continue the active search for Travis L. Turner, the head football coach at Union High School, in Appalachia. Turner, 46, has been missing since agents from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation Wytheville Field Office visited his residence on Thursday but found that he was no longer there.
According to VSP spokesperson Jason Day, extensive efforts are underway to locate Turner near his last known location. Authorities have deployed drones, K-9 units including bloodhounds from local departments and state police, to scour the surrounding woods. State police aviation support was sought but grounded due to unfavorable weather conditions.
Agents clarified that the visit to Turner’s home was part of an ongoing investigation and not related to an arrest at that time. The investigation remains active, and VSP has not released further details on the case or the reasons behind the search.
Meanwhile, Wise County Public Schools Superintendent Mike Goforth confirmed that Jay Edwards assumed coaching duties for Union High School’s football team during the ongoing search. Goforth emphasized the district’s focus remains on supporting students and declined to comment on personnel matters beyond the official statements issued.
Efforts by law enforcement highlight the collaborative nature of the search, involving multiple agencies working to ensure a thorough investigation. Community members are urged to remain patient as the search for Coach Turner proceeds through the weekend.
The VSP advises anyone with information about Turner’s whereabouts to come forward to assist in bringing clarity to the case. The investigation continues without a timeline for resolution, and updates will be provided as new information emerges.
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