The search for Travis Decker continued Wednesday. He is wanted in connection with the deaths of his three daughters.
Decker, aged 32, faces first-degree murder and first-degree luring charges following the tragic deaths of his daughters, Paityn, who was 9, and Olivia, who was 5.
A $20,000 reward has been offered for information leading to Decker’s arrest, following concerns raised by his ex-wife about his deteriorating mental state.
This situation has escalated dramatically.
Military Background
Decker’s military connections are notable, sharing posts from fellow service members online. He is associated with the elite “ranger” tab and served as an instructor at the US Army National Guard Warrior Training Center in Fort Benning, Georgia.
Since 2021, he has been part of the Washington National Guard after moving from active duty. Reports say he has faced disciplinary measures that prevented him from attending monthly drills.
Interestingly, he hasn’t been seen for about a year.
Deteriorating Mental Health
Last year, Whitney, Decker’s ex-wife, filed for divorce. By the end of their marriage, he had reportedly been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, and Whitney suspected he wasn’t adhering to prescribed medication.
In court documents, she described him as a significant factor in the dissolution of their marriage, highlighting how his mental struggles affected their daughters.
She mentioned an increase in troubling behavior from him, noting incidents where he expressed anger in front of the children.
Missing Children
On a Friday evening, Decker was supposed to return his daughters after picking them up for a visit. Whitney was alarmed when they were not back by 9:45 PM and contacted law enforcement.
Initially, a request for an Amber Alert was denied. However, local officers began searching for Decker and the children immediately.
Information suggested his truck was last seen heading westward on Highway 2 that Friday.
By Saturday, an Endangered Missing Persons Alert was issued after detectives received more details.
The search expanded over the weekend, involving multiple agencies and helicopters.
A Scary Discovery
On Monday, deputies found Decker’s abandoned vehicle near the Rock Island Campground. Tragically, the bodies of the three girls were discovered with plastic bags on their heads, and authorities suspect they died from choking.
Two bloody items were located near the truck, and records indicate Decker was near the area at the time.
Heightened Manhunt
Authorities have stated that the search for Decker involves both local and federal efforts.
They’re appealing to the public for assistance in locating him, describing him as approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing 190 pounds with dark hair and brown eyes. He was last seen in a bright shirt and dark shorts.
It’s uncertain if he is armed, but he’s considered dangerous. Police have advised anyone who sees him to call 911 rather than approach.
Meanwhile, a drone has been deployed to aid in the search, and federal agencies are now part of the effort.
There’s a plea directed at Decker: “If you’re listening, this is your chance to turn yourself in. Face the consequences of your actions. Justice is coming for those young girls.”
