Authorities in Washington believe Travis Decker, the father suspected of killing his three daughters, may have prepared a remote hiding spot before fleeing. The bodies of Paityn (9), Evelyn (8), and Olivia Decker (5) were found near Rock Island campground, three hours from Seattle, after a court-approved visit with their father.
Decker, 32, a military veteran with combat training and a history of severe mental illness, is wanted on three counts of first-degree murder. Investigators say he may be living off-grid, as he has done in the past for months at a time.
The girls’ mother, Whitney, reported them missing on May 30 after Decker failed to return them and stopped answering calls. She said he had mental health struggles but had never shown signs of being dangerous.
The children were found with plastic bags over their heads and zip ties on their wrists. Blood was found on Decker’s truck, which also contained personal items and supplies. Decker had reportedly stopped taking his medication and refused a parenting plan that required therapy.
Sheriff Mike Morrison urged Decker to surrender, saying, “Let’s do what’s right for your kids.”
Rest in peace, Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia.
