Authorities in southwest Virginia are searching for Travis Turner, the head football coach at Union High School in Big Stone Gap, after he disappeared late last week. His name remained on the Virginia State Police missing persons list as of Monday.
Turner vanished on Thursday, shortly before officers arrived at his home in the nearby town of Appalachia, police told The New York Post.
Police Clarify Visit Was Not for an Arrest
According to Virginia State Police, officers were headed to Turner’s home “as part of the early stages of an investigation,” but emphasized that the visit was “NOT to arrest [Turner]”.
While they were en route, “the agents were informed that Turner was no longer at the location.”
Authorities have not released details about the investigation or why officers were initially sent to his residence.
Wife Shares Emotional Message Before Post Is Deleted
In a Facebook post shared Friday and later deleted, Turner’s wife, Leslie Caudill Turner, wrote that he was missing, adding: “and that’s all we know.”
She continued: “We love him and need him here with us. Just keep praying that he comes home.”
School District Places Employee on Leave During Review
On the same day Turner disappeared, Wise County Public Schools confirmed that a staff member had been placed on administrative leave with pay. The district did not specify who the employee was or whether it was related to Turner’s case.
In its statement, the district said: “A staff member has been placed on administrative leave with pay while an external agency reviews an allegation that was reported to the division. This is standard procedure and not a determination of wrongdoing.”
It added that the situation involves an active law enforcement matter, limiting further comment.
Drones, Dogs and Search Teams Deployed in Ongoing Investigation
Virginia State Police confirmed that search and rescue teams, drones, and K9 units have been deployed to help locate Turner. The agency said it hopes to “locate Turner safely.”
Turner’s Disappearance Comes During Undefeated Season
Turner’s disappearance comes as Union High School’s football team remains undefeated. Assistant coach Jay Edwards has taken over coaching duties while the search continues.
