Washington Community Grieves as Three Young Decker Sisters Found Dead; Father Wanted in Tragic Case
WENATCHEE, WA — A devastating tragedy has struck the Washington community, leaving families, friends, and residents across the region grappling with an overwhelming sense of loss. On June 2, 2025, authorities confirmed that Paityn Decker, 9, Evelyn Decker, 8, and Olivia Decker, 5, three young sisters who had been reported missing earlier that summer, were found deceased under circumstances that have since been revealed to be homicide by suffocation. Their father, Travis Caleb Decker, remains at large and is wanted for their murders.
🕯️ A Family’s Heartbreaking Loss
The Decker sisters were last seen on May 30, 2025, when they left their home in Wenatchee for a scheduled visitation with their father. When they failed to return, their mother reported them missing the same evening. Authorities launched an extensive search, and on June 2, the girls’ bodies were discovered near the Rock Island Campground in Chelan County, Washington, close to their father’s abandoned vehicle.
⚖️ Cause of Death and Investigation
An autopsy completed on June 6 determined that the girls died from homicidal suffocation. Each had plastic bags over their heads, and their wrists were zip-tied, according to court documents. The manner of death was ruled a homicide by the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office.
Travis Decker, 32, is a former Army Ranger with training in navigation and survival skills. He is considered armed and dangerous. Authorities have issued a $20,000 reward for information leading to his arrest. A nationwide manhunt is underway, but as of now, Decker remains at large.
💔 Community and Legal Repercussions
The loss of Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia has left the community in mourning. A public memorial was held at Rocky Reach Park on June 20, where friends, family, and community members gathered to honor the sisters’ memory.
The case has also raised concerns about the adequacy of mental health support for veterans. Travis Decker had been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and possibly PTSD from his military service. His ex-wife had previously raised concerns about his deteriorating mental health, and a custody legal case from 2024 had ordered Decker to undergo psychological evaluations, though it’s unclear if he complied.
📞 Call to Action
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Travis Decker’s whereabouts to contact the Wenatchee Police Department or local law enforcement immediately. Decker is considered armed and dangerous, and the public is advised not to approach him.