Items ‘of interest’ found during manhunt for Travis Decker, homeless dad wanted in slaughter of 3 daughters

Authorities are making progress in the search for Travis Decker, the fugitive ex-soldier wanted for the killing of his three young daughters. Items believed to belong to him were discovered near a popular Washington hiking area, indicating that law enforcement is closing in on his trail. The manhunt for Decker began after he failed to return his daughters to his ex-wife following a custody visit on May 30. The bodies of his three daughters – Paityn, 9; Evelyn, 8; and Olivia, 5 – were tragically found at a Wenatchee campground three days later.

During a press conference, Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison revealed that items of interest, possibly belonging to Decker, were found near the hiking area. Additionally, a possible sighting of the suspect was reported by backpackers near Colchuck Lake, prompting authorities to deploy ground teams and K-9 units to investigate the area. Despite the lone hiker fleeing when a police helicopter arrived, K-9 units led investigators to a trail at the Ingalls Creek Trailhead, which was temporarily closed off for investigation.

Sheriff Morrison expressed confidence that the lone hiker could be Decker but emphasized the need for concrete evidence before confirming his identity. As the manhunt entered its twelfth day, law enforcement announced a change in tactics while vowing to continue the search until the suspect is apprehended. Decker, charged with three counts of aggravated murder, is considered armed and dangerous, with a background in survivalist skills from his time in the US Army.

Whitney Decker, Travis’ ex-wife, had raised concerns about his mental health and instability in a court petition last September, seeking to restrict his access to their daughters. Despite his survival skills, law enforcement remains determined to capture Decker, with a unified effort from local, state, federal, and international agencies. Sheriff Morrison reiterated that Decker’s actions will determine the outcome of the manhunt, urging him to surrender peacefully.

The search for justice for Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia continues to drive law enforcement efforts, with their memories serving as a constant reminder of the mission to bring their killer to justice. The community remains united in support of the victims and their family, determined to see the case through until justice is served.