Authorities Find Human Remains Believed to Be Travis Decker

LEAVENWORTH, Wash., Sept. 18, 2025 - Search teams located human remains today in a remote wooded area south of Leavenworth, Wash., which preliminary findings indicate belong to Travis Decker, the 32-year-old suspect in the killing of his three young daughters.

Nut Graf The discovery marks a dramatic conclusion to a nearly four-month manhunt for Decker, accused of kidnapping and murdering his daughters during a court-ordered visitation on May 30. Authorities now shift focus to forensic confirmation and next steps for local law enforcement and the Decker family.

Search Operation and Discovery

A multi-agency task force led by the U.S. Marshals Service Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force, alongside the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Patrol, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Forest Service, Spokane County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI, combed remote terrain south of Leavenworth this week.

• Teams scoured rugged forest and river canyon areas.
• The Washington State Patrol crime scene response unit is processing the site.
• DNA analysis will follow to confirm identity.

Background of the Case

On May 30, Decker failed to return Paityn (9), Evelyn (8) and Olivia (5) from a scheduled visit. Three days later, their bodies were discovered at Rock Island Campground off Icicle Road. Investigators found Decker’s vehicle nearby, marked with bloody handprints and personal items.

Investigation and Community Response

Chelan County Sheriff’s Office spokespersons have been in contact with the Decker family, offering support and requesting privacy. Authorities cautioned the public to respect the family’s grief as they await positive identification.

Next Steps

• Forensic teams will complete DNA testing.
• Chelan County officials plan a full press briefing once identification is confirmed.
• Law enforcement agencies will review leads to ensure no further threats remain.

This developing story will be updated as new information becomes available.