Fugitive Search Intensifies as Forest Service Closes Campgrounds and Authorities Hold Press Briefing

LEAVENWORTH, Wash. (Aug. 25, 2025) - In a coordinated effort to locate fugitive suspect Travis Decker, federal and local agencies took sweeping action today around the Rock Island Campground and convened a public briefing to update the community on the manhunt.

A closure order issued by the U.S. Forest Service shut down Rock Island Campground-where Decker is believed to have murdered his three daughters in early June-as well as two additional nearby campgrounds, through Wednesday, Aug. 27. The restrictions encompass several roads, trails and day-use areas within a four-mile radius of the original crime scene to “allow the FBI to conduct an ongoing investigation” without public interference.

At 2 p.m. this afternoon, the FBI’s Seattle Field Office and the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office held a joint press conference at the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Peter Orth and Sheriff Mike Morrison reassured residents that nearly 100 federal and local personnel-including SWAT teams, K-9 units, swift-water rescue teams and evidence-response specialists-are methodically scouring the rugged terrain of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest for any sign of Decker.

Sheriff Morrison described the operation as “challenging terrain with steep inclines, dense forest cover and limited communications,” but emphasized that investigators will “pursue every credible lead until Travis Decker is found” and brought to justice. A mobile command post has been established near the campground entrance to coordinate efforts among the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Border Patrol, Washington State Patrol, Wenatchee Police Department and search-and-rescue volunteers.

The U.S. Marshals Service continues to offer a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading to Decker’s arrest. He remains wanted on three counts of first-degree murder and kidnapping. Authorities warn the public that Decker, a 32-year-old former military servicemember with tactical training, should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to call 911 or submit tips online at www.usmarshals.gov/tips.