Photo: Wenatchee Police Department
Police have made significant progress in the search for Travis Decker, an army veteran wanted for the murders of his three daughters in Washington State. DNA evidence has linked Decker to the crime scene near Rock Island Campground in Chelan County, where the bodies of Paityn, 9, Evelyn, 8, and Olivia, 5, were discovered on June 2. According to the Chelan County Sheriff's Office, bloody handprints found on Decker's truck match his DNA profile, leading authorities to believe he is the sole suspect.
Decker, who served in the Army from 2013 to 2021, has been missing since the incident. He is described as having extensive tactical training and is believed to be homeless, often living in his car or motels. Before the tragic event, Decker reportedly searched for ways to relocate to Canada, according to Deputy U.S. Marshal Keegan Stanley.
The manhunt involves multiple agencies, including the National Park Service, which plans to deploy swift water search and rescue teams to search nearby bodies of water. Drones, cadaver dogs, and tracking dogs are also being utilized in the search efforts. The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to Decker's arrest.
The mother of the three girls had previously filed a petition to modify her parenting plan with Decker, citing his worsening mental health and unstable housing. Authorities urge anyone with information about Decker's whereabouts to contact law enforcement immediately.