Authorities are urgently searching for Travis Decker, a Washington man accused of murdering his three young daughters during a custody visitation. Federal and local agencies are working together as the manhunt spans nationwide.
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WENATCHEE, WA (3-minute read) — A national manhunt is underway for 32-year-old Travis Decker, who is accused of murdering his three young daughters—Paityn (9), Evelyn (8), and Olivia (5)—after a court-approved visitation near a campground in central Washington. Authorities discovered the girls’ bodies Monday near Rock Island Campground, but Decker remains at large.
The Wenatchee Police Department reported the children were picked up around 5 p.m. Friday. When they failed to show up to a planned 5K run the next day, concern grew. Despite an early missing persons alert, the case did not meet Amber Alert criteria, delaying wider notification.
On Monday afternoon, Decker’s abandoned vehicle was found near the campground. A subsequent search revealed the girls’ bodies, prompting the Chelan County Sheriff to issue murder and kidnapping warrants. Decker is described as a homeless former military member with survival and tactical training. Authorities have not confirmed if he is currently armed, but his background raises concerns.
At a press conference Tuesday, Sheriff Mike Morrison emphasized the scale of the search, which now includes the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Marshals. “He could be anywhere in the nation,” Morrison said. “We are using all available resources to find him.”
The mother, Whitney Decker, had reported concerns Friday, citing Travis Decker’s recent financial struggles and emotional instability. She hoped law enforcement could intervene before anything escalated. Sadly, her fears proved valid.
A $20,000 reward is being offered for any information leading to Decker’s arrest. Officials urge anyone who sees him or knows his whereabouts to immediately call 911.
Travis Decker: A Case of Tragic Consequences
This tragic case underscores the critical importance of assessing risk factors during custody exchanges, especially when emotional instability or financial stress are involved. Parents and guardians should work closely with courts and law enforcement to report any deviations from custody agreements promptly.
Safety Tip: Always conduct child custody exchanges in public, well-monitored locations—preferably with law enforcement or court-supervised involvement if there is a history of conflict or concerns about safety.
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