The head coach of Union High School’s football team in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, Travis Turner, has mysteriously disappeared during what should be a triumphant undefeated season for his team. Virginia State Police have confirmed that Turner was officially declared missing on Sunday, with his last sighting reported on the preceding Thursday.
The police were called to Turner’s home on Thursday evening in response to a complaint. However, upon their arrival, Turner was nowhere to be found. The nature of the complaint remains undisclosed. Turner was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt and sweatpants, according to the state police.
Despite the unsettling circumstances, the Union High football team has continued to compete. The team, under the guidance of assistant coach Jay Edwards, who has stepped in as interim head coach, advanced to a regional semifinal following an 11-0 regular season. This achievement came just a day after Turner’s disappearance. The team managed to secure a 12-0 victory against Graham High School in Virginia, despite the distressing news of their coach’s disappearance. Their next challenge is a regional title match against Ridgeview High School.
Search efforts for the missing coach have intensified in Wise County. Multiple law enforcement agencies, drones, and K-9 units have been deployed in the search, according to News Channel 11. Jason Day of the State Police shared on WJHL that drones have been used extensively in the search. However, state police aviation units were unable to assist due to adverse weather conditions. K-9 units, including bloodhounds from local departments and the sheriff’s office, have been scouring the woods and the last known location where Turner was seen.