Photo: Wenatchee Police Department
Authorities are intensifying their search for Travis Decker, a Washington state father accused of murdering his three young daughters, after a potential sighting in Idaho over the holiday weekend. Campers in the Bear Creek area of Sawtooth National Forest reported seeing a man matching Decker's description on July 5. The man was described as wearing a black mesh cap, a cream-colored shirt, and black shorts, and carrying a black Jansport backpack. He also had a long ponytail and overgrown facial hair, according to the U.S. Marshals Service Greater Idaho Task Force.
Decker, a trained military survivalist, is wanted for the alleged murders of his daughters, Paityn, 9, Evelyn, 8, and Olivia, 5. Their bodies were discovered at Rock Island Campground on June 2, with plastic bags over their heads and their hands bound. The girls were reported missing three days earlier after not returning home from a court-mandated custody visit with their father.
The manhunt, which has been ongoing for over a month, involves multiple local, state, and federal agencies, including the U.S. Marshals Service and Border Patrol’s Tactical Unit. Authorities have deployed cadaver dogs and other resources in the search, but Decker remains elusive. Despite the challenges, Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison stated, "All we need is one mistake and one day to go in our favor and he’s going to be in our custody," as reported by Fox News.
Decker is considered armed and dangerous, and a $20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to his arrest. If captured and convicted, Decker could face life in prison without parole. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or suspicious activities.