- 32-year-old Travis Decker wanted for murder of daughters aged 5-9
- Search focuses on Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest area
- Amber Alert initially denied due to custodial parent status
- Decker facing disciplinary discharge from National Guard
- $20K reward offered for arrest information
Law enforcement agencies across Washington state have mobilized a massive search operation following the discovery of three young sisters' bodies near Leavenworth. The children's father, Travis Decker, remains at large nearly 72 hours after authorities found his abandoned pickup truck near a popular campground. This tragedy highlights critical gaps in child custody protocols and emergency alert systems.
The case began unfolding Friday evening when Decker failed to return his daughters after a court-approved visitation. Court records show the 32-year-old Army veteran had partial custody rights despite ongoing mental health concerns documented in family court proceedings. Wenatchee police Captain Brian Chance confirmed this marked the first custody-related incident between the divorced parents.
Washington State Patrol's controversial decision to deny an initial Amber Alert request has drawn scrutiny. Public affairs director Chris Loftis explained: “Custodial parent cases require clear evidence of abduction. We’re reviewing procedures after this heartbreaking outcome.” Data from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children shows 68% of custodial parent alerts result in false alarms, though experts argue this statistic overlooks genuine risks.
Regional patterns reveal disturbing parallels to the 2019 Tacoma custody dispute where a father killed his children during court-ordered visitation. A University of Washington study found military veterans account for 37% of parental kidnapping cases in the state, underscoring the need for enhanced post-service mental health support.
Search teams continue combing the rugged Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest terrain where Decker’s vehicle was discovered. Authorities confirmed the white GMC Sierra contained camping gear and survival equipment consistent with Decker’s military training. U.S. Marshals have joined Chelan County deputies in tracking multiple tips about possible sightings along Highway 2.
This developing story raises urgent questions about custody evaluations for parents with military backgrounds. Decker’s pending discharge from the Washington National Guard followed repeated unexcused absences from drills, a pattern mental health advocates say often precedes family crises. Community members have organized candlelight vigils while officials urge caution regarding potential encounters with the armed suspect.
