00:00Wife of missing football coach comments as police begin manhunt.
00:04The Virginia State Police have launched a multi-jurisdictional manhunt for Union High School football coach Travis L. Turner, 46, who disappeared last week and was officially declared a fugitive on Monday.
00:16Turner now faces 10 felony charges, 5 counts of possession of child pornography, and 5 counts of using a computer to solicit a minor.
00:24The charges were filed shortly after police attempted to visit his Appalachia, Virginia home on November 21st as part of an early investigation.
00:32When troopers arrived, Turner had already vanished.
00:35Since his disappearance, authorities have deployed search teams, drones, and canine units across several counties.
00:42The VSP says its priority is locating Turner safely and is urging the public to provide tips anonymously.
00:48Turner's wife, Leslie Caudill-Turner, has publicly defended him, calling the accusations false and describing him as a dedicated husband and father.
00:58She said the family is trying to remain strong as they await more information.
01:03Just days before he went missing, Turner appeared upbeat in what is believed to be his final public interview following Union High School's playoff victory on November 15th.
01:12He praised his players and discussed preparations for their next matchup.
01:16Under his leadership, the team had remained undefeated, making Turner a well-known figure in the community.
01:23Wise County Public Schools confirmed that a staff member, now known to be Turner, had been placed on paid administrative leave pending an external investigation before charges were formally filed.
01:34The district stated that Turner is barred from school property and student contact.
01:39Turner comes from a respected football family.
01:41His late father, Tom Turner, was a celebrated coach.
01:44As the investigation continues, police say additional charges are possible.
01:50Turner's family has asked the community for prayers and support as the search intensifies.
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