Union High School football coach Travis Turner remains missing after a state police visit to his home. Authorities continue their search as the undefeated team navigates the playoffs without its longtime leader.
The search for Travis Turner, the longtime head football coach at Union High School in Wise County, Virginia, has entered its fifth day as state police continue efforts to locate him in the rugged terrain surrounding Appalachia.
Turner, 46, was last seen on November 20, when Virginia State Police visited his home as part of an investigation that officials have not publicly detailed. Authorities emphasized that Turner was not being arrested, but has not been seen since the interaction.
Police are continuing their search for Travis Turner, a high school football coach in southwest Virginia who went missing last week. He was last seen five days ago amid his team’s undefeated season.
Local police have deployed drones and K9s in their search. pic.twitter.com/HwcIugwKZg
— CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) November 25, 2025
Turner’s disappearance comes at a pivotal moment. The Union Bears are 11-0 and advancing through the Class 2 state playoffs, fresh off a 12-0 victory over defending champion Graham High School.
Turner, who has led the program since 2011 and is widely respected within the region, has been a central figure in the school’s rise as one of Southwest Virginia’s most consistent contenders.
An investigation, a leave of absence, and an anxious community
Complicating the situation is a separate announcement from Wise County Public Schools. Earlier this week, the district confirmed that one employee had been placed on paid administrative leave following an external complaint, but did not identify the staff member.
Officials have declined to say whether the leave is connected to Turner or to the investigation that preceded his disappearance.
Have you all been keeping up with this story? Travis Turner, football coach for Union High School (Big Stone Gap, VA), has been listed as a missing person by the Virginia State Police.
What is so bizarre is that the team is in the middle of an undefeated season and state… pic.twitter.com/1UbGCtwciX
— The Appalachian Podcast (@GetOnTap) November 24, 2025
Meanwhile, the community has responded with a mix of confusion, concern, and support. Students, parents, and residents have gathered for vigils and prayer circles, while search teams, including K-9 units, drones, and volunteer groups, continue combing the steep hills and wooded areas surrounding Turner’s home.
Law enforcement has asked the public to share any possible information, but has released few new details.
Turner’s impact on the region extends beyond football. Known for his steady demeanor and competitive edge, he has shaped Union’s identity on and off the field for more than a decade. His sudden disappearance has left a void that many in the community struggle to reconcile.
What comes next as the investigation continues
Union will continue its postseason under interim coach Jay Edwards, but the absence of its longtime leader looms.
Virginia State Police have reiterated that the case remains open and active, though they have not commented on whether foul play is suspected or whether the investigation that brought officers to Turner’s home is related to his disappearance.
Please use your platforms to help find Virginia high school football coach Travis Lee Turner.
Note: There was an ongoing probe at the school and at least one person was placed on leave pursuant to that probe. Then, the football coach goes missing?
I fear how this may turn out… pic.twitter.com/oxzujqWILv
— Jennifer Coffindaffer (@CoffindafferFBI) November 25, 2025
For now, the central questions remain unanswered. Authorities do not know where Turner is. The school district has not confirmed whether the administrative leave is connected.
And a football program in the middle of an undefeated season is searching for stability while hoping for the safe return of its coach.
As of Tuesday, officials encouraged the public to report any information that might assist the investigation. The community continues to wait for clarity and for Turner to come home.
