Authorities in central Washington state have launched a manhunt for 32-year-old Travis Decker, who is wanted in connection with the deaths of his three young daughters.
Police in Wenatchee, approximately 100 miles east of Seattle, said Decker is facing three counts of murder and kidnapping. His daughters, aged 9, 8 and 5, were reported missing on Friday after he failed to return them to their mother following a scheduled visit.
The girls’ mother contacted police after Decker—described as a former Army soldier with “extensive training”—failed to communicate his whereabouts or reasons for the delay, which was uncharacteristic, officials said.
Over the weekend, authorities launched an extensive search. On Monday, Decker’s white 2017 GMC Sierra pickup truck was found abandoned near a campground in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The bodies of the three girls were discovered nearby during a subsequent search operation.
“Due to safety concerns, do not attempt to contact or approach Decker,” police warned in a statement, urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to call 911 immediately.
The girls were students at Lincoln Elementary School in the Wenatchee School District. The district has since made counselling services available and appealed for privacy for grieving families and staff.
Decker is believed to have been living out of his vehicle and occasionally staying in motels. Police have not disclosed how the girls were killed or confirmed whether Decker is armed.
Chelan County Sheriff’s Office is leading the search while other agencies follow up on credible tips. The investigation remains active.
