Federal authorities have once again closed public access to parts of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, as they continue their search for Travis Decker, who is wanted in connection with the murder of his three young daughters. According to an announcement from the FBI cited by FOX 13 Seattle, several campgrounds, roads, and hiking trails near Leavenworth, including the Rock Island Campground where the investigation began, will be off-limits from Sunday through Wednesday. The U.S. Forest Service has issued the closure order to ensure public health and safety during the ongoing investigation.
The closure impacts multiple sites along Icicle Creek, the FBI's Seattle office confirmed the closures in relation to their operations, adding that more information would be available on Monday. Among the places closed are Rock Island Campground, Blackpine Horse Campground, and Chatter Creek Campground. The agency revealed that a variety of Forest Service roads and multiple trailheads are also closed, according to a list provided by KOMO News. However, the Ida Creek Campground will remain open, with restricted access.
The manhunt for Decker has stretched on for months, with his whereabouts currently unknown. The Chelan County Sheriff's Office has stated they have no evidence to conclude if Decker is alive or not. In a press release obtained by FOX 28 Spokane, the Sheriff's Office said, "He could be international at this point. He could be national, he could be here locally," underscoring the uncertainty surrounding Decker's current location.
Notably, after recent lab results, Decker has been reaffirmed as the sole suspect in the homicides, the Chelan County Sheriff's Office and the FBI have not detected any unknown DNA profiles on the items found at the crime scene, which include plastic bags with Decker's and the victims' DNA and cable ties as reported by FOX 13 Seattle. Law enforcement officials urge the public to not approach Decker if seen and to instead call 911 immediately. Tips can also be submitted to the U.S. Marshals Service Communications Center.
As the search for Decker continues, authorities have repeatedly emphasized the importance of public cooperation. Anyone with information is encouraged to come forward and assist in bringing closure to a case that has already deeply affected the Leavenworth community and beyond. The U.S. Marshals Service, in particular, continues to solicit tips and leads that may help in locating the suspect. Closure orders and detailed maps of the affected areas are available on the U.S. Forest Service's website for those seeking further information on the operation's impact on forest access.
