Undefeated Team’s Coach Vanishes: Search Intensifies for Missing Football Coach

A Virginia high school football coach has disappeared during his team’s perfect season. Travis Turner, 46, went missing on November 20, 2025. He is the head coach of the undefeated Union High School Bears in Big Stone Gap.

His team is 12-0 and playing in the regional finals this Saturday. Virginia State Police are leading a massive search effort. The community is holding its breath.

Historic Season Overshadowed by Mystery

Travis Turner was building a legacy at Union High School. His Bears had not lost a single game. They were heavy favorites to win a state championship.

Everything changed on November 20. According to NBC News, state police agents were en route to Turner’s home in Appalachia, Virginia. They were part of an investigation. Upon arrival, they found he was already gone.

Turner was officially reported missing on Monday, November 24. Search teams with K-9 units and drones combed the area. Authorities described him as 6-foot-3 and 260 pounds.

Despite the crisis, his team played on. The Bears won their playoff game on Saturday. They advanced to the next round without their leader on the sideline.

Community in Shock as Investigation Continues

The disappearance has stunned the tight-knit community. Turner is a local legend, having been a star quarterback for the school in the 1990s. He returned as a coach and won multiple Coach of the Year awards.

His wife, Leslie Turner, pleaded for help on social media. She asked for prayers for his safe return. The community has rallied with vigils and support.

School district officials confirmed Turner was placed on paid administrative leave. This was due to an external investigation into an allegation. They stated this is standard procedure and not an admission of guilt.

The exact nature of the police visit remains unclear. State police have not detailed the allegations involved. They emphasize their primary goal is finding Turner safely.

Key Details at a Glance

Name: Travis Lee Turner
Age: 46
Last Seen: November 20, 2025, in Appalachia, VA
Team: Union High School Bears (12-0)
Status: Active Missing Person Search

A Team Forged in Adversity Presses Forward

The Union Bears now face their biggest challenge. They must compete for a championship amid profound personal turmoil. Assistant coaches have stepped up to guide the team.

Players have publicly dedicated their season to Coach Turner. They speak of playing with heavy hearts but united purpose. The upcoming game is charged with emotion.

Search efforts continue day and night. According to CNN, the investigation is active and wide-ranging. Every possible lead is being pursued.

The story of the missing football coach is a tragic twist in an otherwise dream season. A community waits for answers as a team tries to finish what it started. The hope for Turner’s safe return remains the top priority for all.

Info at your fingertips

When was Travis Turner last seen?

Travis Turner was last seen on Thursday, November 20, 2025. He was at or near his home in Appalachia, Virginia, before state police arrived for an investigative visit.

What was Turner’s team’s record when he disappeared?

The Union High School Bears were undefeated with a perfect 12-0 record. They are currently competing in the Virginia High School League Class 2 regional championship playoffs.

How is the team handling his absence?

The team played and won a playoff game the Saturday after he vanished. Players have vowed to stick together and play hard for their missing coach, showing remarkable resilience.

What are police doing to find him?

Virginia State Police are leading the search. They have deployed ground teams, K-9 units, and aerial drones. The case has been issued as a statewide missing persons alert.

Why was Turner on administrative leave?

School officials placed him on paid leave due to an external investigation into an allegation. The specific details have not been released to the public, as the police investigation is ongoing.