The FBI's manhunt for Travis Decker, accused of the murder and kidnapping of his three daughters, continues amidst the dense forests and challenging landscapes of Washington state, as stated in a press release by the Seattle Field Office. Special Agent in Charge W. Mike Herrington highlighted the case as a top priority and affirmed a commitment to justice for the victims, Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia Decker. The statement, obtained by the FBI, outlines the extensive efforts taken in collaboration with local and federal agencies.
While no evidence confirming Decker's life or demise has been uncovered after three months, the search parties, led by the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, continue their exhaustive efforts in the field. The statement by Herrington mentioned that the area's challenging elements, including no or limited cell service and steep, densely wooded terrains, have not deterred investigators who have been praised for their perseverance. Starting August 25 and concluding on August 26, the FBI initiated a grid search in the vicinity of Rock Island Campground, close to Leavenworth, WA, within a U.S. Forest Service territory.
The battle against nature and the odds has assembled nearly 100 personnel from the FBI Seattle office and partner agencies, ranging from agents to intelligence analysts and medical staff. This surge in manpower includes special teams and equipment such as SWAT, mobile command, and other high-level assets from the FBI's Critical Incident Response Group and Laboratory Division, designed to respond to crises swiftly. As Herrington said, "By thoroughly searching and documenting the area, we can help prevent a need to recheck the area in the future by collecting all possible evidence."
A two-day operation has resulted in trail, campground, and road closures in popular Leavenworth hiking and camping spots, for which the FBI has expressed gratitude to the public for their patience during what is typically a bustling vacation period. Other partners in the search include the U.S. Marshals Service, Port of Seattle Police Department, Yakima Police Department, and the Central Washington University Anthropology Department. Though the operation may not guarantee new information, Herrington assured that the FBI would deploy every available resource to advance the case.
In the overarching narrative, the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office remains the lead agency, while the U.S. Marshals Service has posted a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading directly to Travis Decker's arrest. The FBI continues to caution that Decker should be considered armed and dangerous. Those with information can reach out to the FBI Seattle Field Office or local law enforcement with any potential leads in the case of Travis Decker.
