DNA Links Army Veteran to Deaths of Three Daughters in Washington
Investigators have established a significant link between the DNA of Travis Decker and the tragic deaths of his three daughters, whose bodies were discovered at a campground in Washington earlier this year. On June 2, 2023, authorities found Olivia, aged 5, Evelyn, aged 8, and Paityn, aged 9, at the Rock Island campground near Icicle Road in Leavenworth, Washington. The children had been reported missing after Decker failed to return them to their mother following a scheduled visitation on May 30.
The investigation into their deaths revealed that the girls were found with plastic bags over their heads. A DNA analysis conducted by the Washington State Patrol Crime Lab confirmed that Decker’s DNA matched profiles obtained from the bags, as stated in a news release from the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office. Autopsies later determined that the cause of death for each girl was suffocation, classifying the manner of death as homicide.
In addition to the evidence found on the plastic bags, zip ties discovered “in the immediate area of the bodies” also tested positive for Decker’s DNA. Chief Ryan Moody of the sheriff’s office confirmed that they are currently awaiting further evidence testing from the crime lab.
A previous analysis indicated that crime scene evidence also pointed to Decker’s involvement. Blood samples collected from the site matched items taken from the scene, as reported by the sheriff’s office on July 1, 2023. Despite ongoing investigations, the sheriff’s office has not received any new information regarding Decker’s current location or status. They continue to collaborate with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in their search efforts.
Decker, now 33, served in the U.S. Army from 2013 to 2021 as an infantryman and was a member of the Army National Guard. He was deployed to Afghanistan during his service. His estranged wife, Whitney Decker, filed for divorce in November 2022 and highlighted his struggles with mental health in court documents. She noted that Decker had been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and had difficulty maintaining stable housing and emotional health since their separation.
At the time the girls went missing, Decker was permitted to visit them every other weekend, but these visits did not include overnight stays. Whitney Decker stated that his mental health issues were impacting their daughters’ well-being. As part of their parenting plan, he was ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation for anger management. Court records indicate that he failed to complete this evaluation within the mandated 30-day period.
Currently, Decker’s whereabouts are unknown. He is described as being 5 feet 8 inches tall, with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a tan or green shirt and dark shorts. The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading to Decker’s arrest. He is wanted on three counts of aggravated first-degree murder and three counts of first-degree kidnapping.
Authorities are urging the public to report any sightings or suspicious activity by calling 911 or contacting the nearest U.S. Marshals office. Information can also be submitted to the U.S. Marshals Service Communications Center at (800) 336-0102 or through their website at usmarshals.gov/tips.
