An Army veteran trained to protect has now become the subject of a national manhunt after allegedly murdering his three young daughters in cold blood. Authorities in Washington state are searching for 32-year-old Travis Decker, wanted on three counts of murder and kidnapping following a nightmare that has shaken the Wenatchee community to its core.
The girls, aged nine, eight, and five, were reported missing after a planned visit with their father last Friday. When Decker failed to return them and stopped responding to calls, panic set in. Police later discovered his abandoned white 2017 GMC Sierra near a campground in Leavenworth, and the bodies of the three children were found nearby—zip-tied at the wrists and believed to have been asphyxiated.
“We are all turning our heartbreak into focus. There is work to be done in apprehending this man,” said a Washington State Patrol spokesperson.
Decker, described as having “extensive training” from his Army service, is considered dangerous, even though he is not known to be armed. The U.S. Marshals are offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.
In court documents, Decker’s ex-wife said he suffers from borderline personality disorder and was not taking medication. She noted he acted “quieter than usual” when picking up the children—behavior she found troubling.
“Travis, if you’re listening, this is your opportunity to turn yourself in,” Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison said. “Do the right thing… We’re not gonna go away, we’re not going to rest, and we’re gonna make sure we find you.”
This tragic case has shaken an entire community and raised serious questions about how to better protect vulnerable children in custody situations. As law enforcement continues the search, many are asking what more can be done to identify warning signs and prevent devastating outcomes like this in the future.