In a heart-wrenching case that has gripped Washington State and the nation, three young sisters—Paityn (9), Evelyn (8), and Olivia Decker (5)—were found dead after a scheduled visitation with their father, Travis Caleb Decker, on May 30, 2025. The girls were reported missing when Decker failed to return them to their mother, Whitney Decker, prompting a widespread search
On June 2, authorities discovered Decker’s abandoned pickup truck near Rock Island Campground in Chelan County. Nearby, the bodies of the three sisters were found with plastic bags over their heads and their wrists bound, indicating they had been suffocated. Preliminary reports suggest asphyxiation as the cause of death. 
Travis Decker, 32, a former Army veteran with a history of mental health issues, including PTSD and borderline personality disorder, is the primary suspect and remains at large. Authorities have issued a warrant for his arrest on three counts of first-degree murder and one count of kidnapping. Decker is considered dangerous, with survival skills that may aid him in evading capture in remote wilderness areas
Whitney Decker, the girls’ mother, has spoken out about the tragedy, describing her ex-husband as a loving father who struggled with mental health challenges. She shared a poignant Father’s Day video tribute featuring happier times, underscoring the family’s deep loss.
The case has sparked discussions about the adequacy of mental health support for veterans and the effectiveness of child protection measures during custody arrangements. A GoFundMe campaign established to support the Decker family has raised over $1 million, reflecting the community’s solidarity and grief.
As the manhunt for Travis Decker continues, authorities urge anyone with information to contact law enforcement immediately. The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office has emphasized the importance of public vigilance in bringing the suspect to justice and ensuring community safety.
