Washington State Father Sought for Murder After Three Daughters Found Dead

A community in central Washington is in mourning and on high alert after authorities announced a manhunt for Travis Decker, 32, who is suspected of murdering his three young daughters. The tragedy began unfolding late Friday when the girls’ mother reported that Decker had failed to return the children after a scheduled visit—something police described as out-of-character for the former Army soldier.

Wenatchee Police, leading the investigation with assistance from the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Marshals, said that Decker is wanted on three counts of murder and kidnapping. The girls, ages nine, eight, and five, were at the center of an intense search that started over the weekend as officers combed through rural areas around their hometown. Authorities confirmed that Decker, considered dangerous and with "extensive training," may be armed, urging the public not to approach him under any circumstances.

The grim discovery came Monday near a campground outside Leavenworth, roughly 20 miles from Wenatchee, where Decker's white 2017 GMC Sierra pickup was found abandoned. According to law enforcement officials, the bodies of the children were located in close proximity to the vehicle, with investigators indicating evidence that their wrists were zip-tied and that they died by asphyxiation. The details, outlined in court documents, have added to the horror and heartbreak now felt across the region.

Their mother had alerted police after Decker, who picked the girls up just after 5 p.m. Friday, missed the agreed-upon drop-off time by 8 p.m. and became unreachable. A detective noted the mother's fears, explaining that Decker "reportedly has never done this before" and "is currently experiencing some mental health issues." The urgency of the situation quickly escalated, mobilizing multiple agencies and prompting the offer of a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading to his arrest.

Officials stressed that the investigation remains ongoing, with search teams focusing efforts in and around the Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest. Authorities continue to pursue tips and possible sightings as they attempt to locate Decker. Law enforcement emphasized, "Due to safety concerns do not attempt to contact or approach Decker," reiterating the danger he may pose.

At a press conference Tuesday, Sheriff Mike Morrison directly addressed Decker, saying, "Travis, if you're listening, this is your opportunity to turn yourself in…We're not gonna go away, we're not going to rest, and we're gonna make sure we find you."

The tragic deaths of the three young girls have left the Wenatchee community shaken and searching for answers, while the pursuit of their father continues across Washington state.