Manhunt Intensifies for Washington Father Accused of Killing His Three Daughters
Chelan County, Washington | June 6, 2025 — Authorities in Washington state have launched a large-scale manhunt for Travis Decker, 32, who is accused of killing his three young daughters during a court-approved visitation. The shocking incident has sent ripples across the nation and ignited urgent calls for systemic reforms in child protection and mental health support for veterans.
The victims—Paityn (9), Evelyn (8), and Olivia (5)—were reported missing on May 30, during a scheduled visit with their father. Their bodies were tragically discovered three days later, on June 2, at the Rock Island Campground in Chelan County. According to investigators, the children showed signs of asphyxiation, with plastic bags placed over their heads and their wrists zip-tied—a scene law enforcement officials have described as “deeply disturbing.”
Travis Decker, a former U.S. Army soldier with extensive survivalist training, remains at large. His abandoned truck was found near the crime scene, leading authorities to suspect that he may be hiding in the nearby wilderness. Police have issued public warnings across Chelan, Kittitas, King, Snohomish, and Okanogan counties, urging residents to stay alert, lock their homes, and report any suspicious activity.
The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office is working with multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and local search-and-rescue teams. A $20,000 reward has been announced for information leading to Decker’s arrest. Recently released Ring camera footage is being used to help track his movements.
Decker’s ex-wife, Whitney Decker, has spoken publicly about his deteriorating mental health, citing his battle with PTSD and his inability to receive consistent support from veterans’ services. She revealed that she had raised concerns in the past about his mental stability, but the visitation remained approved by the courts. Travis Decker had no prior history of violence or legal infractions, making the tragedy even more confounding to those who knew the family.
“This is not just a personal loss—it’s a failure of the system,” Whitney said in an emotional statement. “No parent should ever have to bury their children.”
The broader community has rallied around Whitney Decker, with a GoFundMe campaign launched to support her. As of this week, it has raised more than $1 million.
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with knowledge of Decker’s whereabouts to immediately contact 911 or the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office. The search is ongoing, and authorities emphasize that the suspect may be armed and dangerous.
Key Details:
- Suspect: Travis Decker, 32, former Army soldier with survival training
- Victims: Paityn (9), Evelyn (8), Olivia (5)
- Location: Rock Island Campground, Chelan County, WA
- Reward: $20,000 for information leading to arrest
- Tip Line: Contact Chelan County Sheriff or call 911
This tragedy has not only devastated a family but has also reignited urgent conversations around mental health resources for veterans, family court oversight, and child safety protocols in the United States. The nation watches as the search continues, hoping for swift justice and closure.
