APPALACHIA, VA – The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the capture of a Virginia high school football coach who fled into the woods before authorities could question him about child sex abuse allegations.
Travis Turner, who coached at Union High School in Wise County, faces five counts each of soliciting a minor via computer and child pornography possession. He has been on the run since November 20 when he disappeared into a wooded area near his Appalachia residence as investigators approached.
At a recent school board meeting, an alleged victim came forward through a statement read by community member Stephen Murray. The victim’s words painted a picture of the psychological manipulation often experienced by abuse survivors.
“I felt like I was the problem. I felt like I had embarrassed the school, damaged the reputation of the coaching staff and disrupted something I was supposed to protect instead of myself,” the victim’s statement read.
The allegations against Turner mark the third time since 2020 that a Wise County school employee has faced sexual misconduct charges, raising concerns among parents about oversight and safety protocols.
Resident Page Wagner attended the school board meeting to demand answers about how the case was handled and what transparency measures would be implemented going forward.
School Superintendent Mike Goforth addressed the community’s concerns but provided limited details, citing the ongoing investigation.
Turner’s current whereabouts remain unknown. Authorities describe him as a fugitive and warn the public not to approach him if spotted.
Anyone with information about Turner’s location is urged to contact the U.S. Marshals Service. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and the $5,000 reward is available for information that leads directly to his arrest.
