Virginia High School Football Coach Missing; Massive Search Underway Amid Undefeated Season
Travis Turner, the head football coach at Union High School in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, has been reported missing during a remarkable undefeated season. Virginia State Police confirmed that Turner was officially listed as a missing person on Sunday, after he was last seen on Thursday.
Details of the Disappearance
Turner was reported missing after law enforcement responded to a complaint at his residence on Thursday evening. When officers arrived, he had already left the premises. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a gray sweatshirt and sweatpants.
Undefeated Season Continues
In the midst of these troubling circumstances, the Union High football program continues to thrive. Assistant coach Jay Edwards has taken over as interim head coach. Under his guidance, the Bears have advanced to the regional semifinals, maintaining an impressive record of 11-0 in the regular season.
Recent Game Performance
- Union won against Graham High School with a score of 12-0.
- Next, they will compete against Ridgeview High School in a crucial regional title matchup.
Ongoing Search Efforts
Search operations for Coach Turner are intensifying in Wise County. The authorities are utilizing drones, K-9 units, and multiple law enforcement agencies to assist in the search efforts. Jason Day of the Virginia State Police provided insights into the ongoing search.
“We have had drones in the air searching,” Day stated. “K-9 units, including bloodhounds from local departments, have been deployed into the woods around the area where he was last known to be.” Unfortunately, adverse weather conditions impeded the use of state police aviation in the search.
As the community and law enforcement continue their efforts, the Union High School family holds hope for the safe return of Coach Travis Turner amid this challenging time during their undefeated season.
