Travis Decker Update: The Latest As National Guard Aids in Expanded Search
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The search for Travis Decker, a former Army soldier accused of killing his three young daughters in Washington state, is in its second week as the Washington National Guard has been deployed to aid law enforcement officers continuing to comb the Cascade Mountains and the Pacific Crest Trail region.
Authorities reopened several previously closed roads and trails in Chelan County but maintained warnings for area residents and visitors to remain vigilant. Decker, 32, has been described him as a skilled outdoorsman with survivalist training.
This undated photo provided by the Wenatchee Police Department shows Travis Caleb Decker who the police are asking the public for help in locating the Washington state father who is wanted for murder after his...
This undated photo provided by the Wenatchee Police Department shows Travis Caleb Decker who the police are asking the public for help in locating the Washington state father who is wanted for murder after his three young daughters were reported missing and then found dead. More
Wenatchee Police Department via AP
The Context
This case has drawn national attention due to the severity of the allegations, questions about gaps in mental health support for veterans, and public safety concerns as the suspect remains at large.
The killings of 5-year-old Olivia, 8-year-old Evelyn, and 9-year-old Paityn have sparked a wide-scale manhunt and prompted calls for increased security and mental health resources.
What To Know
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson wrote on X on Saturday that he ordered Washington National Guard resources to support the search for Decker.
Karina Shagren, communications director of the Washington Military Department, told Newsweek that the department has a UH60 Blackhawk and crew on standby at the Wenatchee airport.
"The area being searched is very rugged – this crew is available in the event law enforcement need to be transported to areas that are inaccessible by road," Shagren said.
After a week of intensive searching, Chelan County authorities began reopening some roads and trails closed at the onset of the manhunt. Overnight stays on some backcountry trails remain prohibited through Thursday.
Newsweek reached out to the Chelan County Sheriff's Office for comment.
Travis Decker picked up his daughters on May 30 for a court-ordered visitation but failed to return them. Their mother reported the children missing that evening. On June 2, the bodies of all three girls were found near the Rock Island Campground, and Decker's abandoned truck was discovered nearby.
Suspect's Background and Search Operation
Decker is an Army veteran with knowledge of survival skills.
"Mr. Decker is well versed in wilderness survival and capable of spending days or even weeks in the wilderness on his own and with very little equipment," the sheriff's office said in a media release.
He is wanted for murder, kidnapping, and unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. Over 500 public tips have been reported to the Chelan County Sheriff's Office.
Public Safety and Community Impact
Authorities cautioned residents living in remote and wooded areas across five counties to lock doors and outbuildings, turn on outdoor lights, and remain alert. A $20,000 reward is available for credible tips leading to Decker's arrest.
Arianna Cozart, an attorney for the children's mother Whitney Decker, previously told Newsweek that Whitney did not observe any unusual behavior from Travis when he came to pick up the girls on May 30.
"If there had been any concerning behavior, Whitney would not have allowed the visitation," Cozart said.
Whitney has repeatedly said that the lack of mental health resources for veterans failed Travis, herself and her children, according to Cozart.
"I think she is still reeling from losing her entire world. She is strong and kind and wants this tragedy to spur change and save lives. That is what is driving her right now," Cozart said.
What People Are Saying
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson, on X: "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."
Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison, at a press conference: "I don't think any motive would be acceptable. And clearly, it's not the decision of a sound mind."
What Happens Next
Law enforcement agencies will continue search efforts in the Pacific Northwest, reviewing tips as the investigation advances. The National Guard and other agencies remain deployed, and sections of the Pacific Crest Trail and campsites will stay partially closed as authorities pursue all leads in the hunt for Decker.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Chelan County Sheriff's Office tip line at 509-667-6845. Officials are warning the public not to contact or approach Decker.
Do you have a story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have any questions about this story? Contact LiveNews@newsweek.com.
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