Coach’s Wife Speaks Out About Rumors Surrounding His Disappearance
Wife of Missing Coach Addresses Rumors Amid Investigation
Leslie Caudill Turner, the wife of Travis Turner, a high school football coach reported missing, has publicly addressed speculation surrounding her husband’s disappearance. In a statement released through the family’s attorney, she asserted that she did not assist in his absence.
“Criminal charges were not obtained against Travis until days after he failed to return home,” the attorney said. “He was not a fugitive nor wanted by law enforcement at the time he went missing. His wife was not helping him escape; she was asking for help to find him.”
Travis Turner, 46, was last seen by family members on November 20, walking into a wooded area near their home while armed. Shortly after his disappearance, he faced charges of five counts of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor.
The statement emphasized that the Turner family is cooperating with law enforcement. “Their homes and properties have been searched multiple times, with their consent,” it noted. Leslie had not reported her husband missing immediately after he left for the woods, as this had been a routine for him in the past. However, when he did not return that evening, she sought assistance from authorities, filing a missing person report with the Virginia State Police (VSP) the following day.
On November 22, the VSP classified Travis as an “endangered missing person.” Leslie’s concerns grew after she discovered that Travis had left home without essential items, including his car and keys. “Travis wore contact lenses by day and glasses in the evenings. His contact lens supplies and glasses were left at home. His wallet, license, cash, and all its contents were also left in the home,” the statement detailed. "It is not like Travis to disappear or stay away from home."
Leslie and Travis, who have been married since 2001, share three children: Bailey, 25; Grayden, 21; and Brynlee, 11.
As the search for Travis continues, the United States Marshals Service joined local authorities on the ground to assist in the efforts. “The search remains active and ongoing with the assistance of the US Marshals Service and FBI,” a spokesperson for the VSP stated, while asking for the public’s help in locating Turner.
Authorities have focused their search on the densely wooded area near his home, employing K-9 units, drones, and a helicopter. They have also warned that Travis “may be armed,” advising caution to the public as they continue their investigation. The VSP indicated they are following up on all tips received and encouraged anyone with information to contact law enforcement.
