Search Intensifies for Alleged Murderer of Three Young Girls
Authorities Concerned Travis Decker May Be Deceased
The search for Travis Decker, the 32-year-old father accused of murdering his three daughters, has escalated in recent days as law enforcement agencies express growing concerns that he may not be alive. Decker has been on the run since last month when the bodies of eight-year-old Evelyn, nine-year-old Paityn, and five-year-old Olivia were discovered. Each girl was found with plastic bags over their heads and zip ties around their wrists, near Decker’s abandoned pickup truck.
Search Operations Expand with Cadaver Dogs
The Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office announced on Monday that they are utilizing cadaver dogs in their search efforts across various areas, including Blewett Pass, Lauderdale, Liberty, and Teenaway Valley. Sheriff Mike Morrison stated, "At this time, there is no certain evidence that Decker remains alive or in this area." As the search enters its fourth week, Morrison emphasized that both the U.S. Marshals and local law enforcement are actively pursuing leads, with specialized teams being deployed to more difficult terrains.
“Seemingly strong early leads gave way to less convincing proofs over the last two weeks,” a statement from the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office noted, reiterating their commitment to finding Decker. The statement continued, “Still, we can’t and won’t quit this search; Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia deserve justice.” The sheriff’s office added that Decker remains a significant threat to public safety while he is at large.
Family Mourns the Loss of Three Innocent Lives
In the wake of this tragedy, the girls’ mother, Whitney Decker, publicly expressed her grief for the first time during a memorial service held on June 20. “I truly hope that the legacy of the girls’ lives lives on in everyone’s heart forever,” she said. Whitney praised her daughters as “incredible” and urged the community to remember the joy they brought into the world.
As the investigation continues, authorities are redirecting some search resources toward recovering Decker in the event that he succumbed to the wilderness during his flight from justice. The ongoing search underscores the harrowing nature of this case and the community’s quest for answers and closure.
Authorities have released a new wanted poster for Decker as the manhunt continues.
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