Search for Washington Father Continues After Tragic Discovery of Daughters’ Bodies

Search for Washington Father Continues After Tragic Discovery of Daughters’ Bodies

A chaotic manhunt is underway for a Washington state father accused of murdering his three young daughters, whose bodies were discovered at a campground in Chelan County earlier this week. Authorities report that the girls, ages five, eight, and nine, were found with plastic bags over their heads and their wrists bound.

Travis Caleb Decker, a 32-year-old survivalist and military veteran, has been on the run since the alleged tragic event. According to police, the children’s bodies were located on Monday after they had not been returned to their mother, Whitney Decker, following a visitation.

In a statement to reporters on Wednesday, Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison indicated the possibility that Decker had attended Mountain Survival School. This training may have increased the difficulty of locating him. “We know he has been an avid outdoorsman since childhood,” said Morrison.

The U.S. Marshals and the FBI are now involved in the search for Decker as law enforcement officials strive to apprehend him.

Details Leading Up to the Tragedy

Whitney Decker informed authorities that her ex-husband failed to return their children on time as stipulated by their court-ordered parenting plan. The plan allowed Decker limited visitation rights, and he was to bring the girls home by 8 p.m. Friday. When he failed to meet this deadline, Whitney became concerned and attempted to contact him, but all her calls went unanswered.

Morrison noted that this was not the first time Decker had missed a return deadline, but his ex-wife warned authorities that he has a history of mental health issues, including borderline personality disorder.

Compounding the situation, police said Decker is homeless and moves between motels and campgrounds. His transient lifestyle poses a significant challenge to law enforcement.

Discovery of the Children’s Bodies

Authorities discovered Decker’s vehicle, a 2017 white GMC Sierra, at the Rock Island Campground around 4 p.m. on Monday. A deputy located the truck parked not far from where the bodies of his daughters were found. According to court documents, the girls’ remains were recovered approximately 75 to 100 yards away, down an embankment.

Shocking details emerged from the investigation. Each child was found with a plastic bag covering her head, and their wrists exhibited signs of being zip-tied. Furthermore, deputies reported finding two bloody handprints on the pickup’s tailgate.

Charges and Ongoing Investigation

Travis Decker is now facing three counts each of aggravated first-degree murder and kidnapping, adding a layer of gravity to this unfolding story. He is described as standing approximately five feet, eight inches tall, weighing around 190 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Decker is known to have tattoos on both arms and was last seen with a distinctive goatee and mustache.

As the search continues, authorities have labeled him as potentially dangerous. Although it remains unclear whether he is armed, officials are urging the public to exercise caution. Sheriff Morrison emphasized the risks of approaching Decker and recommended anyone who spots him to call 911 immediately.

Reward for Information

In an effort to expedite his capture, authorities are offering a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading directly to his arrest. This initiative highlights the urgency of the situation as law enforcement seeks to bring the suspect into custody.

Morrison urged Decker to turn himself in, stating, “We want a peaceful resolution, but we will not relent in our efforts to locate you. Please do the right thing for your kids and wrap this up.” His comments reflect the deep concern and urgency surrounding the case.

How to Help and Get Real-Time Updates

The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office is ensuring that they remain vigilant in their search efforts. They are encouraging anyone with information about Decker’s whereabouts to reach out. Individuals can contact the Chelan sheriff’s tip line at 509-667-6845 or provide information through various authorized channels.

As this harrowing story unfolds, the search for justice and answers remains at the forefront of community concerns. The tragic loss of these young lives resonates deeply, and the hope for a resolution lies in the hands of both law enforcement and the public.

Stay informed as updates continue to develop in this heartbreaking case. The authorities’ commitment to finding Decker speaks to the gravity of the situation and the collective wish to ensure justice for the victims.

Report compiled with contributions from sources.