OLYMPIA, WA – Governor Bob Ferguson has activated resources from the Washington National Guard to help search for the Wenatchee man accused of kidnapping and murdering his three young daughters.
“Tonight, I am tapping emergency funds and ordering Washington National Guard resources to support the search for Travis Decker, who is suspected of killing his three daughters. At the request of the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, we will be providing helicopter transportation for law enforcement as they search in remote areas,” says a statement from Ferguson. “As a parent, my heart goes out to Paityn, Evelyn and Olivia’s mom, Whitney, and all those who love them. The brutal murder of these young children has shocked our state. I’m committed to supporting law enforcement as they seek justice for Paityn, Evelyn and Olivia.
The bodies of 5-year-old Olivia Decker, 8-year-old Evelyn Decker and 9-year-old Paityn Decker were found near Leavenworth on Monday.
“I want to remind Washingtonians to be aware of safety directives from law enforcement as the search continues. If you live in the area, keep your doors and windows locked. Avoid closed areas, which currently include the Enchantments and the Icicle River area. If you see Travis Decker, do not approach – call 911. Anyone with information should contact Chelan County Sheriff’s Office,” said Ferguson.
According to an affidavit filed in Chelan County Superior Court, Decker picked up his three children from their mother’s Wenatchee home on Friday, May 30, as part of a court-ordered visitation schedule. He failed to return them that evening, as well as during two additional scheduled return times on May 31 and June 1. Their mother, Whitney Decker, reported the children missing to the Wenatchee Police Department after being unable to contact Decker and expressing concern about his mental health.
Law enforcement launched an extensive search using cellphone data, license plate readers, and canvassing efforts. On June 2, Chelan County deputies located Decker’s vehicle abandoned at Rock Island Campground in a remote part of the county. Not far from the vehicle, deputies discovered the bodies of three school-aged children down an embankment. Each had a plastic bag over their head, and their clothing matched what they were last seen wearing.
The Chelan County Coroner later confirmed that all three children died by asphyxiation and had marks consistent with being zip tied. Based on the investigation and evidence, authorities believe the children were murdered while in Decker’s custody and that he intentionally withheld them from their mother.
If you believe you have seen Decker, call the Chelan County tip line at (509) 667-6845.