Travis Caleb Decker, a 32-year-old survivalist from Washington state, is wanted for the murder of his three daughters, who were found dead at a campground in Chelan County. The bodies of the children, aged 5, 8, and 9, were discovered with plastic bags over their heads and bound wrists, according to court documents and authorities. Decker, who did not have custody of the children, has been identified as the primary suspect in the crime, which has prompted an extensive manhunt involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison, in a recent press briefing, stated that evidence is pointing toward Decker’s involvement in the disappearance and murder of the girls. The sheriff confirmed that Decker had previously failed to return the children to his ex-wife, Whitney Decker, following a court-ordered parenting plan. The ex-wife reported that Decker had a history of not adhering to the agreed-upon visitation schedule, and that he had failed to return the children by the curfew on Friday, when the incident occurred.
Authorities have not ruled out a motive for the alleged crime, but Decker’s ex-wife provided insights into his mental health and behavior, citing concerns about his potential instability. She warned that he may have mental health issues, particularly borderline personality disorder, which could have contributed to the alleged actions. Additionally, the investigation revealed that Decker was homeless and frequently moved between motels and campgrounds, which may have influenced his ability to hide from authorities.
The case has drawn significant attention, with the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office offering a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading to Decker’s arrest. The FBI and U.S. Marshals are collaborating in the search, as Decker is considered dangerous and potentially armed. The investigation continues to gather evidence, including doorbell camera footage of Decker, which has been released by authorities, providing new insights into his movements and activities during the time of the alleged crime.
As the manhunt intensifies, the community is urged to stay vigilant and report any sightings of Decker, who is described as a man approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 190 pounds, with black hair, brown eyes, and a goatee, tattoos on both arms. The sheriff’s office has emphasized the importance of public cooperation in ensuring that justice is served, while also advising that anyone who encounters Decker should avoid confrontation and contact law enforcement immediately.