The manhunt for Travis Decker, a former Army serviceman accused of killing his three young daughters, has escalated significantly, with more than 100 law enforcement officers now engaged in a large-scale search operation spanning rugged terrain in Washington’s Cascade Mountains.
The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Friday that over 500 tips from the public have been received, helping to sharpen the focus of the multi-agency effort. Authorities have deployed both ground and aerial resources across Chelan and neighboring counties, anticipating the fugitive may attempt to move through remote wilderness areas to avoid detection.
Federal and local agencies have joined forces, including tactical and administrative personnel, to support the intensive manhunt. Officials say morale at the command post remains high, bolstered by new surveillance footage, still images, and growing community involvement. The Washington National Guard has also been activated by Governor Bob Ferguson to provide additional support.
Decker, 32, became the subject of a criminal investigation after the bodies of his daughters—Paityn, 9, Evelyn, 8, and Olivia, 5—were found earlier this week approximately 75 to 100 yards down an embankment near a campground roughly 11 miles from the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Investigators noted disturbing details at the scene, including zip ties and plastic bags scattered nearby.
The girls were reported missing after Decker failed to return them to their mother, Whitney, following a scheduled court-ordered visitation. He now faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder and kidnapping. Federal prosecutors have also charged him with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
Governor Ferguson condemned the killings in a statement posted to social media, writing, “The brutal murder of these young children has shocked our state. I’m committed to supporting law enforcement as they seek justice for Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia.”
Court documents obtained Friday reveal that Decker conducted multiple online searches days before the murders, including queries such as “how does a person move to Canada,” “jobs Canada,” and “how to relocate to Canada.” These findings have heightened concerns that he may be attempting to flee across the northern border using the PCT, which runs from Mexico to Canada and lacks physical barriers at its northern terminus.
Canadian authorities recently announced that hikers will no longer be granted crossing permits unless they enter through an official port of entry. However, due to the trail’s remote nature, it remains a potential escape route.
Authorities have issued safety advisories to residents of Chelan, Kittitas, King, Snohomish, and Okanogan counties, especially those living in remote areas or owning cabins. Citizens are urged to keep all structures securely locked, leave outdoor lights on, and avoid obstructing views into their properties by closing window blinds.
Multiple recreational areas, including portions of the Pacific Crest Trail, have been closed as a precaution.
According to court records, Decker is believed to possess extensive wilderness survival skills acquired during his military service. Described as a “well-versed outdoorsman,” he has reportedly lived off the grid for extended periods and is trained in navigation, long-distance travel, and survival tactics in woodland and mountainous environments.
Authorities have not confirmed whether Decker is armed, but caution that he should be considered extremely dangerous. He is described as a white male, 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing approximately 190 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a light-colored shirt and dark shorts.
Residents who spot Decker are advised not to approach him and to immediately contact 911. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is encouraged to call the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 509-667-6845.
As the search enters its second week, law enforcement officials continue to emphasize the importance of public vigilance and interagency collaboration in bringing Travis Decker to justice.
