Authorities in Washington state are urgently searching for 32-year-old Travis Decker, a father now wanted in connection with the deaths of his three young daughters. The heartbreaking case has sent shockwaves through the community of Wenatchee after the girls… 9-year-old Paityn, 8-year-old Evelyn, and 5-year-old Olivia… were found dead near a remote campground on Monday.
According to the Wenatchee Police Department, the children were reported missing on Friday by their mother, Whitney Decker, after their father failed to return them following a scheduled visit. Police launched a widespread search over the weekend, tracking Travis Decker, who was believed to be traveling in a white 2017 GMC Sierra with Washington plates.
The search took a grim turn when officers discovered the vehicle abandoned near a campground. After further investigation in the area, the bodies of the three girls were tragically located. Decker is now wanted on three counts of first-degree murder and three counts of kidnapping.
Authorities have warned the public not to approach Decker, who is a former military member. While it remains unclear whether he is currently armed, officials emphasize that anyone who may have seen him since Friday should immediately contact 911.
In an emotional interview with KIRO-TV, the girls’ mother said she had no previous concerns about her children’s visitations with Decker. Court records show the couple had been married for seven years before divorcing amicably.
However, documents also reveal that Travis was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder near the end of their marriage and was supposed to undergo mental health treatment and anger management… which he reportedly never pursued.
The Wenatchee School District confirmed that all three girls were students at Lincoln Elementary and has made grief counseling available to support staff and students.
“To give our school community the space to grieve and heal, we ask that only those with essential school business come to the campus,” the district said in a statement.
As the manhunt continues, anyone with information is urged to come forward.
