Additional Coverage:
Wenatchee, WA – A devastating tragedy has struck the small town of Wenatchee, Washington, leaving the community reeling. Three young girls, ages 5, 8, and 9, were found dead near Leavenworth, Washington, after being reported missing by their mother. Their father, Travis Decker, 32, is wanted in connection with their deaths and is considered armed and dangerous.
The girls’ mother contacted police on Friday evening when Decker failed to return them after a scheduled visit. This was unusual behavior, she explained, particularly as Decker was experiencing mental health challenges.
A search was launched over the weekend, but it wasn’t until Monday that Decker’s abandoned truck was discovered near a campground west of Leavenworth. The bodies of the three girls were found a short distance away.
Court documents suggest the girls were zip-tied and died of asphyxiation.
The Wenatchee Police Department, aided by the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office and the US Marshals, is actively searching for Decker. He is wanted on three counts of murder and kidnapping.
A reward of $20,000 is being offered for information leading to his arrest. Authorities urge the public not to approach Decker but to call 911 immediately with any information regarding his whereabouts.
The girls were students at Lincoln Elementary, where counseling services are being offered to students and staff. The tragic loss has deeply affected the community, with Washington Military Department spokesperson Karina Shagren stating, “This is an absolute tragedy.
We are mourning along with the community.” Decker is a former full-time member of the Washington National Guard, who transitioned to part-time before ceasing participation in mandatory drills.
He was reportedly facing disciplinary discharge.
The circumstances surrounding the girls’ disappearance initially failed to meet the criteria for an Amber Alert, a point of contention in the wake of this tragedy. While an Endangered Missing Person Alert was subsequently issued, the delay has raised questions about the alert system’s effectiveness.
Chris Loftis, director of public affairs for the Washington State Patrol, acknowledged the need for continuous improvement, stating, “Obviously it didn’t work this time. Obviously, we have three children that are dead.”
The case underscores the complexities and challenges faced by law enforcement in missing person cases, particularly those involving custodial parents.