Manhunt Underway for Travis Decker in Idahos Sawtooth National Forest
Authorities launch massive multiagency manhunt for accused triplemurder suspect Travis Decker after a potential sighting in Idahos Sawtooth National Forest Reward offered public urged to remain vigilant .
Manhunt Intensifies After Sighting in Idaho Wilderness
A nationwide manhunt for Travis Decker suspected of killing his three daughters has escalated following a recent sighting in Idahos rugged Sawtooth National Forest A family camping in the Bear Creek area reported seeing a man who matched Deckers description This triggered a renewed and intensified search by the US Marshals Service Idaho law enforcement and multiple federal agencies .
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Decker is believed to be armed and extremely dangerous Authorities have issued urgent warnings to campers hikers and residents near the forest to avoid contact and report any sightings immediately .
Crime and Timeline What We Know
On May 30 2025 during a courtordered custody visit Travis Decker allegedly murdered his daughters 9yearold Paityn 8yearold Evelyn and 5yearold Olivia by suffocating them using zip ties and plastic bags Their bodies were discovered by authorities on June 2 at Rock Island Campground near Leavenworth Washington .
The tragedy shocked the Wenatchee community and prompted a multistate search Deckers brokendown vehicle was located near the campground stained with what investigators believe was his own blood .
Fugitive Profile Military Background and Survival Skills
Decker 32 is a former US Army infantryman with extensive wilderness survival training He had previously lived offgrid and reportedly researched relocating to Canada before the murders Standing approximately 58 and weighing 190 pounds Decker is described as having a ponytail overgrown beard and typically wears light clothing while carrying a black backpack .
His military training makes him a formidable target to track Authorities believe he is capable of navigating difficult terrain and surviving longterm in the wilderness without outside help .
Scope of the Manhunt
The manhunt has now lasted over a month and is estimated to have cost more than 6 million Hundreds of personnel including SWAT teams K9 units the National Guard and specialized aerial support teams have combed through Washingtons Cascade Mountains and now parts of Idahos Sawtooth National Forest .
Search methods include land patrols waterway sweeps cadaver dog units and aerial thermal imaging Forest access in some areas has been restricted and roadblocks were temporarily installed but later lifted to allow resident mobility .
Public Appeal and 20000 Reward
The US Marshals have offered a 20000 reward for any information that leads to Deckers arrest Public cooperation remains crucial In similar manhunts tips from civilians have often played a decisive role in capturing fugitives .
Although authorities have found little conclusive evidence of his current location or survival they continue to urge the public not to be complacent warning that Decker remains a threat as long as he is not in custody .
What You Should Do
If you see someone matching the following description do not approach .
- White male 58 190 lbs
- Ponytail and long beard
- Lightcolored shirt and dark shorts
- Carries a black backpack
Instead immediately call 911 or contact the US Marshals Tip Line or Chelan County Sheriffs Office .
Cabin owners and campers in Idaho are advised to .
- Lock all structures and vehicles .
- Keep lights on overnight .
- Check wildlife and security camera footage regularly .
A Community in Grief
A memorial was held on June 20 for the three girls Their mother Whitney Decker called the loss unbearable and pleaded for continued efforts to find her exhusband She has since stated her desire for justice dead or alive and remains an outspoken voice in keeping the case in the public eye .
In Summary
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Victims | Paityn (9), Evelyn (8), Olivia (5) |
| Date of Murders | May 30, 2025 |
| Body Discovery | June 2, Rock Island Campground |
| Suspect | Travis Decker, ex-Army, survivalist |
| Last Sighting | July 5–6, Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho |
| Reward Offered | $20,000 by U.S. Marshals |
| Public Advisory | Do not approach; call 911; review footage |
This case remains one of the most pressing fugitive pursuits in recent US history Authorities emphasize the critical role public vigilance will play in ensuring that Travis Decker is finally brought to justice and the victims family finds closure .