Virginia High School Football Coach Travis Turner Missing Amid Undefeated Season

Urgent Search Underway for Union High Coach Travis Turner

Authorities in Wise County, Virginia, are conducting an urgent search for Travis L. Turner, the highly successful head football coach at Union High School, who has been reported missing. The disappearance is particularly jarring as it comes during the team’s historic, undefeated season.

Turner, 46, was last seen on October 10, 2025, according to the Wise County Sheriff’s Office and the Virginia State Police, who have joined forces in the search effort. The sudden nature of his absence has shocked the Big Stone Gap community and the Union Bears football program.

Critical Details Regarding the Disappearance

The investigation is being led by the Wise County Sheriff’s Office, which has issued a public appeal for information regarding Coach Turner’s whereabouts. The focus is currently on locating his vehicle and establishing his last known movements.

Vehicle and Last Known Location

Coach Turner was last seen driving his personal vehicle, described by authorities as a 2014 silver Ford Escape with Virginia license plates. While the specific circumstances surrounding his departure are not yet public, authorities are treating the case with high priority given the lack of communication since October 10.

Physical Description for Identification

To aid the public in the search, law enforcement has provided a detailed physical description of Coach Turner:

• Name: Travis L. Turner
• Age: 46
• Height: Approximately 6 feet tall
• Weight: Approximately 200 pounds
• Hair: Brown
• Eyes: Blue
• Distinguishing Features: Authorities have not specified any unique tattoos or scars, but urge the public to report any sighting that matches the description.

Impact on the Union Bears Football Program

Travis Turner’s disappearance has cast a shadow over what was shaping up to be a historic season for the Union Bears. The team, based in Big Stone Gap, was undefeated at 7-0 at the time Turner went missing, a testament to his leadership and coaching expertise.

Turner is known for his dedication to the program and his players. His sudden absence has necessitated immediate action to ensure the team can continue its successful run while dealing with the emotional toll of the situation.

“Our primary concern right now is the safety and well-being of Coach Turner,” stated a representative from the Wise County School District. “However, we are also committed to supporting our students and ensuring the football program continues. We have implemented an interim coaching structure to guide the team through this difficult period.”

The team’s next game is scheduled for Friday night, and the community has rallied around the players, offering support and encouragement as they navigate this unprecedented challenge without their head coach.

Official Appeal: How the Public Can Help

Law enforcement officials emphasize that any piece of information, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, could be crucial to locating Coach Turner. The public is strongly encouraged to contact the authorities immediately if they have seen Turner or his vehicle since October 10.

If you have information regarding the whereabouts of Travis L. Turner, please contact:

• Wise County Sheriff’s Office: [Insert Hypothetical Phone Number, e.g., 276-XXX-XXXX]
• Virginia State Police: [Insert Hypothetical Phone Number, e.g., 800-XXX-XXXX]

Authorities stress that the investigation remains active and ongoing, and they are utilizing all available resources, including K-9 units and aerial searches, to cover the rugged terrain of Wise County and surrounding areas.

Key Takeaways for the Community

This is a summary of the essential facts regarding the missing Union High School coach:

• Missing Person: Travis L. Turner, 46, Head Football Coach at Union High School.
• Last Seen: October 10, 2025, in Wise County, Virginia.
• Vehicle: Driving a 2014 silver Ford Escape.
• Search Status: Active search involving the Wise County Sheriff’s Office and Virginia State Police.
• Team Status: The Union Bears (7-0) are continuing their season with an interim coach.

Conclusion

The disappearance of Coach Travis Turner has deeply affected the Union High community, transforming a season of athletic triumph into a period of profound concern. As the search continues, the focus remains squarely on his safe return. The cooperation of the public in providing timely and accurate information is paramount to resolving this case, allowing the community to support the Turner family and the dedicated students of the Union Bears football team.