Additional Coverage:
- Dad suspected of killing 3 young girls has experience living ‘off the grid’: Sheriff (abcnews.go.com)
Nationwide Manhunt for Father in Daughters’ Deaths
The search continues for Travis Decker, 32, wanted in connection with the deaths of his three young daughters. Authorities believe Decker, who may be equipped for wilderness survival, could be anywhere in the country.
The bodies of Paityn Decker, 9; Evelyn Decker, 8; and Olivia Decker, 5, were discovered near Rock Island Campground in Chelan County, Washington, on Monday afternoon. The girls had been reported missing after failing to return from a scheduled visit with their father on Friday evening. Decker’s vehicle was found at the scene, but he remains at large.
Court documents reveal a grim scene, with the girls found with plastic bags over their heads and zip ties binding their wrists. Similar items were found scattered near Decker’s vehicle, along with what appeared to be bloody handprints on the tailgate.
Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison stated that authorities are pursuing leads from across the nation, including tips received through social media. “Clearly this was not the outcome we wanted,” Morrison said, expressing the hope that Decker would be apprehended quickly.
Decker has a military background, having served in Afghanistan in 2014 while on active duty in the Army. He later transferred to the Washington National Guard. His father has told authorities that Decker is experienced in wilderness survival and has been known to live “off the grid” for extended periods.
The girls’ mother, Whitney Decker, initially contacted police on Friday with a civil complaint, reporting that Decker had not returned their daughters after a scheduled visit. She expressed concern for their safety, citing Decker’s history of mental health struggles. Court documents indicate a troubled marital history, with Whitney Decker describing erratic behavior and a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder.
A $20,000 reward has been offered for information leading to Decker’s arrest. The FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and U.S.
Marshal’s Office are assisting local authorities in the nationwide manhunt. Sheriff Morrison made a direct plea to Decker, urging him to surrender and “take accountability for your actions.”
Decker is described as 5 feet, 8 inches tall, with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a light shirt and dark shorts. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact 911 immediately.