A young woman, who claims to be a victim of the alleged child predator Travis Turner, has opened up about her harrowing experience. She describes feeling as though she was “the problem” while being groomed by Turner, a football coach at Union High School in Big Gap, Virginia.
Travis Turner, the embattled coach, faces serious accusations, including five counts of soliciting a minor through digital means and possession of child pornography. This case has stirred considerable public outrage, especially as the school has remained silent amid growing demands for accountability.
In a heartfelt letter, the victim shared her ordeal and expressed gratitude for the swift and professional response from a different school administrator who took prompt action by contacting the authorities. Her letter was publicly read by Stephen Murray, a Wise County resident, during a recent school board meeting. The Kingsport Times News reported on these proceedings, highlighting the dissatisfaction with how the case has been managed.
Murray didn’t stop there; he also unveiled a troubling list of Wise County school employees who have faced sexual misconduct charges since 2020. This list underscores a systemic issue within the school system, suggesting that these incidents are not isolated.
“This is just the cases that have been reported and charged,” Murray emphasized. “When there is this much abuse, it’s not just a few bad apples. It is a culture. The fish rots from the head down.” His words echoed a growing sentiment that deeper, systemic changes are necessary to protect students and restore trust in the educational environment.
He also read a list of Wise County school employees who have been charged with sexual allegations since 2020, including:
- Dalton Bates (2020): Central High School (band director)
- Timothy Lee Meador (2023): Union High School
- Tyler J. Tibbs (2025): Coeburn Middle School
“This is just the cases that have been reported and charged,” Murray stated. “When there is this much abuse, it’s not just a few bad apples. It is a culture. The fish rots from the head down.”
Another resident, Page Wagner, said Turner’s alleged victim was questioned by the Union High School principal without notifying her parents or police.
Others in attendance complained about the school board’s lack of transparency.
Prior to the meeting, School Superintendent Mike Goforth declined to say whether Turner was still employed at the school.
Meanwhile, the search for Turner continues.
Turner left into a wooded area near the residence in Appalachia, on November 20, shortly before authorities arrived at his home for questioning.
The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a “reward of up to $5,000 for information” that leads to his whereabouts.
Turner has since been removed from the staff member website at the high school.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact Virginia State Police Division 4 at 276-484-9483 or send an email questions@vsp.virginia.gov. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
Check back for updates.
[Feature Photo via Instagram]
