Idaho hiker confused for Travis Decker, wanted child murder suspect

Hiker Mistaken for Fugitive in Idaho

A hiker in Idaho reported that he was mistakenly identified as Travis Decker, a suspected fugitive and accused murderer who has been eluding capture since May 30. Decker is alleged to have killed his three daughters—nine-year-old Evelyn and her five-year-old sisters, also named Evelyn and Olivia. Their bodies were discovered at Rock Island Campground on June 2 after their mother reported them missing following a court-mandated visit with their father.

Michael Lee, a former U.S. Associate Deputy, noted that the U.S. Marshals Service became aware of potential sightings of Decker in the Bear Creek area of Idaho’s Saucetooth National Forest on July 5, based on tips from locals. Descriptions of the man, thought to resemble Decker, included details such as a black mesh cap, cream t-shirt, black shorts, and distinctive tattoos.

A few days later, over the July 4th weekend, Reddit users claimed they had seen Decker. A hiker named Nick said he had gone hiking on the Bear Creek Trail solo after his friend had to leave. On returning home, he was alerted by a friend who shared a news article detailing ongoing sightings of Decker. Realizing others might’ve thought he was the fugitive was unsettling.

Nick mentioned, “We thought we were in the area with a killer.” It was only upon receiving texts that he understood the gravity of the situation. He hadn’t even noticed the manhunt while he was camping.

After returning home, he contacted local authorities to clarify his identity and shared his experience on local news. He described a moment when a friend texted about the manhunt, expressing disbelief while reflecting on their close encounter with the alleged murderer.

Nick expressed satisfaction with his decision to report his mistaken identity to the authorities, emphasizing that he felt it was the right thing to do in a situation involving a dangerous fugitive.

Currently, the search for Decker is ongoing, involving both local and federal agencies. He’s thought to be driving a 2017 white GMC Sierra with a Washington license plate. Authorities had previously discovered the truck near Rock Island Campground, along with evidence related to the tragic deaths of his daughters. Precautions are being taken, with officials warning that Decker should be considered armed and dangerous, although they also stated they do not believe he poses a threat to public safety at this time.