Travis Decker Believed to Be Surrounded as Investigation Into Child Deaths Continues

The manhunt for Travis Decker, a Washington father suspected in the deaths of his three young daughters, is intensifying as authorities report they are closing in on his location.

SHERIFF: “WE BELIEVE HE IS SURROUNDED”
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, June 11, Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison provided key updates in the ongoing investigation. It has been nine days since the bodies of Paityn (9), Evelyn (8), and Olivia Decker (5) were found near Rock Island Campground in Chelan County, Washington.

The three girls were last seen alive on Friday, May 30, after leaving for a weekend visitation with their father, which had been approved by the court.

On June 3, authorities found Travis Decker’s vehicle abandoned near Rock Island Campground. Shortly after, the bodies of his three daughters were discovered inside a tent in the vicinity. According to the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), autopsy results confirmed that the girls died from suffocation, and their deaths have been ruled homicides.

DECKER BELIEVED TO BE HIDING IN BLEWETT PASS REGION
In an update issued Tuesday, June 10, CCSO reported that search teams had traced a person believed to be Decker to the Blewett Pass area near Highway 97. Sheriff Mike Morrison stated that investigators had located critical evidence linked to the suspect, and that the search area has since narrowed.

“We’re confident we’re closing the gap,” said Morrison. “Wherever he turns next, we’ll be there.”

REMOTE WILDERNESS SEARCH CONTINUES WITH AIR AND GROUND SUPPORT
Hikers in the Enchantments area reported encountering a man who appeared to be alone, avoiding others, and unprepared for the rugged terrain and weather. That tip led search crews to deploy a helicopter, which later spotted a solitary figure near Colchuck Lake. The individual ran when sighted.

Tracking dogs followed the scent trail to the Ingalls Creek Trailhead, suggesting Decker may still be moving through the backcountry.

Despite the difficult conditions, Sheriff Morrison expressed strong confidence:
“People are aware. We’ve got him contained. It’s just a matter of time before he makes a mistake — and when he does, we’ll act.”

PUBLIC SAFETY NOTICE: REMAIN ALERT IN AFFECTED AREAS
Sheriff Mike Morrison is calling on both locals and visitors to stay vigilant as the search for Travis Decker continues in the region:

• Secure your homes and vehicles

• Report any unusual or suspicious activity immediately

• Do not engage with anyone who appears to be hiding or unprepared for outdoor conditions

“This is a heavily visited area,” Morrison said. “More people out here means more awareness — and fewer hiding spots.”

TRAVIS DECKER: CHARGES FILED
Authorities have filed several serious charges against Travis Decker, including:

• Three counts of first-degree murder

• One count of first-degree kidnapping

• Custodial interference

Though he remains at large, law enforcement believes his arrest is only a matter of time.

SUPPORTING THE VICTIMS’ FAMILY
A verified GoFundMe campaign supporting Whitney Decker, mother of the three girls, has raised over $1.2 million as of June 12. Donations will help cover the cost of funerals, legal needs, and mental health support.

HOW TO REPORT SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE
If you know or suspect that a child is being abused, please reach out to the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline:

📞 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)
🌐 www.childhelp.org

The hotline is free, confidential, available 24/7, and supports over 170 languages.