An intense manhunt is underway for Travis Decker, 32, a former Army and Washington National Guard veteran accused of brutally murdering his three young daughters, Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia, ages 9, 8, and 3, during a scheduled visitation on May 30.
The children’s bodies were discovered on June 2 near Rock Island Campground in Chelan County, Washington, just 11 miles from the Canadian border, raising alarms that Decker may be heading north. The sisters were found dead near Decker’s abandoned truck.
Inside, investigators discovered bloody handprints, a blanket, and car seats that bore evidence linking Decker to the crime scene.
Digital breadcrumbs
Court documents reveal chilling online searches made by Decker on May 26, days before the murders, looking into “how does a person move to Canada,” “how to relocate to Canada,” “jobs Canada,” and even visiting “Find a job – Canada.ca.”
Federal authorities argue that these searches show a calculated escape plan, and the U.S. Marshals have since charged him with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
Survival savvy could aid escape
Decker’s military background and outdoorsman skills are believed to be key to survival: Court records note expertise in navigation, woodland survival, mountain terrain, and previous off-grid living, having once survived in backwoods conditions for months
This, coupled with his suspected route along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), raises grave concern that he may cross into Canada undetected. The PCT, which stretches from Mexico to Canada, is unmonitored at the northern terminus.
Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson has deployed the National Guard, and over 100 law enforcement agents are actively searching forested counties and trailheads.
Trauma, mental health, and a tragic breakdown
Whitney Decker, the children’s mother, had recently filed for a protective order, citing Travis’s erratic behavior, reported by his workplace bullying, a car accident, and a decline in mental stability.
Although no official motive has been confirmed, provisional autopsy results point to asphyxiation as the cause of death. Decker is facing three counts of first-degree murder, three counts of kidnapping, and custodial interference.
Authorities have released fresh photos highlighting Decker’s distinctive tattoos and the clothes he wore during the crime, urging the public to check doorbell and trail cameras and not to approach if spotted, as he may be armed. A $20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to his arrest. If you see Decker or have credible information, immediately call 911 or the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office tip line.
