The wife of a missing high school football coach who is facing legal charges has publicly addressed the situation regarding her husband’s disappearance.
Travis Turner, a high school football coach, has been missing since November 20, just before law enforcement attempted to visit his residence.
On Thursday, officers from Virginia State Police (VSP) arrived at his home as part of an ongoing investigation. However, they were informed that he was not present. This led to the deployment of drones and search and rescue teams in efforts to locate him.
As the search continues, authorities have revealed that the 46-year-old, residing in Appalachia, Virginia, is facing charges including five counts of child sexual abuse material and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor.
According to the BBC, additional charges may be forthcoming against Turner. The police have issued 10 warrants for his arrest, emphasizing that their primary goal is to find him ‘safely’.
A police department representative stated: “VSP’s main priority is locating Turner safely; he is now considered a fugitive.”
The search efforts extend across multiple jurisdictions.
Prior to his disappearance, Turner was serving as the head coach for the Union High School football team in the Wise County public district. The school district issued a statement noting that Turner ‘remains on leave and is not permitted on school property or to have contact with students’. As reported by CBS, they further stated: “The division will continue to cooperate with law enforcement as this process moves forward.”
Turner’s wife has addressed the situation, telling the Daily Mail that ‘none of it is true’.
“He’s a good dad and a good husband, and we want him home. That’s it,” she expressed. “I don’t know anything. I don’t know anything. I’m sorry.”
“We are all just hanging in there until we get news.”
The family’s attorney, Adrian Collins, released a statement: “I speak today on behalf of Coach Turner’s family. We remain prayerful for his safe return and for everyone affected by the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. We trust God to bring truth and clarity in His time. Any allegations should be addressed through the proper legal process – not through speculation or rumor.” The statement concluded with a plea for privacy.