Body of Veteran Found After Manhunt Linked to Tragic Deaths of Daughters
Authorities have confirmed the identity of a body found in the Washington wilderness, belonging to Travis Decker, a military veteran suspected of killing his three daughters at a campsite earlier this year. This marks the conclusion of a three-month-long search for Decker, who disappeared shortly after the discovery of his daughters’ bodies—Evelyn, age 8, and Olivia, age 5, found on June 2 at a campground in Chelan County.
“We deeply respect and mourn the loss of Paicin, Evelyn, and Olivia,” said Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison during a press conference. “We want to honor their memory and show that they haven’t been forgotten,” he added, referring to the tragic case.
Just last week, officials found the remains on Grindstone Mountain, approximately 0.75 miles from where the girls’ bodies were discovered at Rock Island Campground. DNA testing confirmed the remains were indeed those of Decker. “It’s a relief to finally confirm this,” Morrison stated. “For our team and federal partners, this is a step toward closure regarding this tragic chapter for Chelan County.”
The investigation got a boost when a dive team from Spokane County found a key FOB belonging to Decker near Icicle Creek, prompting extensive search efforts in the area.
Last week, pieces of clothing and other personal items, including cigarettes, were also recovered alongside Decker’s remains, which were subsequently sent for further testing. Ironically, his ex-wife Whitney had previously expressed concerns about his mental health, filing for an amended parenting plan that restricted him from having overnight visits with their daughters until he found stable housing.
After failing to return the girls from a court-ordered custody visit, Whitney reported them missing, leading to a search that ultimately resulted in the grim discovery of their bodies near Decker’s abandoned vehicle. Disturbingly, one of the girls was found in a plastic bag, tied with a zip tie, and an autopsy revealed the cause of death as asphyxiation.
Decker had a military background, serving in the Army from March 2013 until July 2021, including a four-month deployment in Afghanistan. He faced serious charges like first-degree murder and illegal flights to evade law enforcement.
Following the announcement of Decker’s death, federal prosecutors took steps to dismiss a federal lawsuit against him. However, the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office held off confirmation until they could verify the DNA results. “I’m sorry it took this long to provide the closure that was needed,” remarked Morrison, expressing hope that this revelation allows the family to find some peace. “Now that we have confirmation, I hope it brings a measure of comfort to them.”
