Leavenworth, WA – Authorities in Washington state have found human remains they believe may belong to Travis Decker, the fugitive father accused of killing his three young daughters earlier this year. Positive identification has not yet been confirmed, but officials say preliminary findings suggest the remains are Decker’s.
Discovery of Remains
The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office announced Thursday evening that the remains were located in a remote wooded area south of Leavenworth, on Grindstone Mountain, just a few miles from where Decker’s daughters’ bodies were previously found.
Sheriff Mike Morrison stated that items found near the remains, including clothing and personal effects, were consistent with what Decker was wearing when last seen. DNA testing will be conducted to confirm the identity.
Background: The Decker Family Tragedy
Decker, 32, a former Army soldier with extensive survival skills, was accused in May 2025 of murdering his three daughters:
- Paityn Decker, 9
- Evelyn Decker, 8
- Olivia Decker, 5
The case began when the girls’ mother reported that Decker had not returned them on time following a planned visit in Wenatchee, Washington, roughly 100 miles east of Seattle. Three days later, the children’s bodies were found down an embankment at a Cascade Mountains campsite. Their wrists were bound with zip ties, and an autopsy determined that they had died from suffocation. DNA testing confirmed Decker as the sole suspect.
Search Efforts for Decker
After the murders, a manhunt for Decker began. Investigators used drones and cadaver dogs to comb remote areas. Photos were released in June to show how Decker might have altered his appearance, and a $20,000 reward was offered for information leading to his arrest.
Earlier this month, the FBI reported finding bones that were thought to belong to Decker, but further analysis revealed they were not human.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Authorities are continuing to process the scene where the remains were found. DNA analysis is expected to provide official confirmation of Decker’s identity. Law enforcement officials emphasize that the investigation is ongoing, and public safety remains a top priority as they finalize the search and evidence collection.
Anyone with information related to Travis Decker or his whereabouts before his disappearance is urged to contact the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office. Share your thoughts on this case and stay updated on developments in Washington by commenting below.
