The search for Travis Decker has intensified as more than 100 officers, agents, and deputies continue to hunt for the ex-Army man accused of killing his three young daughters last week.
PREVIOUSLY | Law enforcement professionals, both tactical and administrative, have converged on Chelan County to assist in the complex murder investigation.
Bob Ferguson also activated the Washington National Guard Friday evening to aid law enforcement.
Local and federal law enforcement have been searching for the 32-year-old father from the air and on the ground after the bodies of his daughters, 5-year-old Olivia Decker, 8-year-old Evelyn Decker, and 9-year-old Paityn Decker, were discovered Monday.
I’m committed to supporting law enforcement as they seek justice for Paityn, Evelyn and Olivia.”
As more than 100 officers, agents, and deputies continue to search for Travis Decker, the former Army man who is suspected of killing his three young daughters last week, the search has become more intense.
The joint operation has narrowed its focus thanks to more than 500 public tips, according to the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office.
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The intricate murder investigation has brought together both tactical and administrative law enforcement personnel in Chelan County.
According to officials, morale is still high at the Command Post despite the difficulties.
In the ongoing search, new surveillance footage, images, and public tips are helping with decision-making. Authorities are collaborating with neighboring counties in case Decker passes through the forest and enters their territory.
The success of apprehending Decker is thought to depend on the participation of additional agencies and increased public awareness.
Washington Gov. On Friday night, Bob Ferguson also called in the Washington National Guard to support law enforcement.
The bodies of his daughters, Olivia Decker, 8, Evelyn Decker, and 9, were found Monday, prompting local and federal law enforcement to conduct aerial and ground searches for the 32-year-old father. Investigators discovered plastic bags and zip ties strewn all over the place where the bodies of the three girls were discovered, some 75 to 100 yards down an embankment.
Following Decker’s failure to return the girls to their mother in accordance with their court-ordered visitation plan, they were initially reported missing. He was accused of both murder and kidnapping after their bodies were found.
Ferguson posted, “As a parent, my heart goes out to Paityn, Evelyn and Olivia’s mom, Whitney, and all those who love them,” on X. “Our state is in shock over the heinous killing of these young children. I’m determined to help law enforcement in their efforts to bring Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia justice. “..”.
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On Thursday, federal prosecutors accused Decker of fleeing illegally to evade prosecution. In the days leading up to the kidnapping of his daughters, Decker Googled “how does a person move to Canada,” “how to relocate to Canada,” and “jobs Canada,” according to court documents obtained by KOMO News on Friday.
Several search warrants for Decker’s Google accounts, including earlier searches conducted from Decker’s account, were obtained and served by investigators. Decker was homeless at the time of the killings and reportedly suffered from PTSD. According to documents, his ex-wife listed his mental instability as a reason for her divorce.
The U. S. In federal court documents, the Marshals Service stated that the Decker sisters were discovered at a campground approximately 11 miles away from the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). The PCT is a reputable trail that stretches the whole U.S. west coast. A. from Mexico to Canada. The northern border is where the trail comes to an end.
There is no fence or barrier between the two countries at the PCT terminus, even though Canada declared earlier this year that it would no longer grant permits for hikers to enter the country lawfully without going through an official port of entry.
The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office reported on Friday that over 500 tips had been received from the public and that over 100 officers were searching the rocky Cascade Mountains in central Washington for Decker.
According to court documents, Decker had extensive training in “navigation, woodland/mountainous terrain, long distance movements, survival, and numerous other disciplines needed to be able to flee” while serving in the Army.
Additionally, according to court documents, Decker is a “well-versed outdoorsman” who “frequently engages in hiking, camping, survival skill practice, hunting, and even lived off the grid in the backwoods for approximately 2.5 months on one occasion.”. “.”.
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Earlier this week, law enforcement in Chelan, Kittitas, King, Snohomish, and Okanogan counties asked residents who live in remote areas or who own cabins to leave window blinds open and lock all doors, including sheds and outbuildings. It is also advised that residents keep their outdoor lights on.
Parts of the PCT are among the hiking and recreational areas in Washington that have been closed by authorities as they continue their manhunt for Decker.
Although Decker’s armed status is currently unknown, authorities stated that he should be regarded as dangerous and armed. Decker was described by the authorities as white, about 5 feet 8 inches tall, 190 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. He was last spotted sporting dark shorts and a light-colored shirt.
In addition to being advised not to speak to or approach Decker, anyone who spots him should dial 911 right away. Anyone with information is encouraged to submit their information or call the CCSO tip line at 509-667-6845.
