WISE COUNTY, Va. — The United States Marshals Service has announced a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of Union High School head football coach Travis Lee Turner, who is wanted on ten felony charges in Wise County, Virginia.
The Charges
Turner, 46, of Appalachia, Virginia, faces five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor. The warrants were issued by the Virginia State Police on November 25, 2025, following an investigation that began earlier in the month.
Timeline of Disappearance
– November 20, 2025: Virginia State Police agents attempted to contact Turner at his home in Appalachia. He was not there. Witnesses reported he left carrying a firearm and disappeared into nearby wooded areas.
– November 25, 2025: Ten felony warrants were formally issued against Turner.
– November 26, 2025: The Virginia State Police requested assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.
– December 1, 2025: The Marshals announced a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to his capture.
Fugitive Description
Authorities have released the following description:
– Name: Travis Lee Turner
– Age: 46
– Height: 6 feet 3 inches
– Weight: 235 pounds
– Hair/Eyes: Brown hair, brown eyes
– Last Seen: Leaving his Appalachia home armed with a firearm on November 20
Officials warn that Turner may be armed and dangerous. Citizens are strongly advised not to approach him.
Agencies Coordinating the Search
The manhunt is being coordinated by multiple agencies:
– Virginia State Police (VSP) — issued the warrants and initiated the investigation.
– U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) — leading the fugitive search and reward program.
– Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) — assisting in search operations.
Shockwaves Through the Community
Turner had been Union High School’s head football coach since 2011, guiding the Bears to multiple playoff appearances and becoming a prominent figure in Wise County athletics. His sudden disappearance just before postseason play stunned the community.
Union High School has since removed Turner’s name from its staff directory. Parents, students, and residents have expressed disbelief and concern, with many noting the abrupt collapse of a once-respected coaching career.
Local officials have emphasized that public safety is the top priority, urging residents to remain vigilant and report any information that could assist in the investigation.
Public Advisory
The U.S. Marshals Service urges anyone with information to immediately contact:
– 911
– Virginia State Police
– U.S. Marshals Service
Tips that directly lead to Turner’s arrest may qualify for the $5,000 reward.
Summary
Travis Turner remains a fugitive wanted on ten felony charges related to child pornography and solicitation of a minor. He was last seen leaving his home armed with a firearm. The U.S. Marshals, FBI, and Virginia State Police are coordinating the search, with a $5,000 reward offered for information leading to his capture.