Manhunt for Father Accused of Murdering Daughters Intensifies

Manhunt for Father Accused of Murdering Daughters Intensifies

3 minute read
Published: 7/7/2025

The manhunt for Travis Decker, wanted for murdering his three daughters, intensified in Idaho after campers reported a possible sighting, prompting authorities to deploy drones and cadaver dogs in the search.

The search for Travis Decker, who is accused of murdering his three young daughters, has taken on new urgency following a possible sighting reported by campers in Idaho. This development comes in the wake of DNA evidence linking him to bloody handprints on his truck, reinforcing his status as an armed and dangerous fugitive. Authorities, including the U.S. Marshals Service, have deployed advanced search methods and are offering a $20,000 reward for his capture. Decker's military survivalist background heightens concern for public safety as his whereabouts remain unknown, while the emotional toll of the tragedy continues to weigh heavily on the girls' mother, who seeks to honor their memory.

Travis Decker, 33, is the prime suspect in the deaths of his three daughters—Paityn, 9, Evelyn, 8, and Olivia, 5—whose bodies were discovered on June 2 at Rock Island Campground. Their deaths came shortly after a court-mandated visit with their father, raising concerns about the circumstances surrounding their disappearance and tragic end.

The reported sighting in Idaho describes a man resembling Decker, standing between 5'8" and 5'10" tall. Eyewitnesses noted that he was wearing a black mesh cap, a cream shirt, and black shorts while carrying a black Jansport backpack, with a long ponytail and overgrown facial hair. This description has fueled the search for Decker, as authorities remain vigilant in the surrounding areas.

In the days leading up to the intensified search, DNA evidence played a significant role in solidifying Decker's status as a suspect. On his truck, police found bloody handprints that matched his DNA profile, effectively ruling out any other potential suspects in the case. This concrete evidence has placed considerable pressure on law enforcement to locate him swiftly.

The search efforts have been extensive, with authorities employing a variety of methods. Drones equipped with surveillance technology, as well as cadaver dogs trained to detect human remains, have been deployed in the areas surrounding the sighting. These tools are critical in tracking his movements and potentially locating him.

Whitney Decker, the mother of the deceased girls, has expressed her hope for her daughters' legacy to endure beyond this tragedy. During a memorial service, she described Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia as incredible children, and spoke of her profound loss. The emotional impact of their deaths resonates not only with her but also within the community that has rallied around their family.

In addition to the search efforts, the U.S. Marshals Service continues to warn the public that Decker should be considered armed and dangerous. The organization has offered a reward of $20,000 for any information that could lead to his capture. Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen him or has any relevant information to come forward.

Decker has a background as a trained military survivalist and is a former member of the U.S. Army. Prior to the incident, he was reportedly homeless, which may have contributed to his ability to evade capture. His military skills further complicate the search, raising concerns about the potential dangers he may pose if cornered.

Further complicating the investigation is Decker's internet history, which allegedly includes searches related to relocating to Canada shortly before the murders. This information has prompted law enforcement to extend their search beyond local borders, considering the possibility that he may attempt to flee the country.

As the manhunt continues, the community remains on high alert. Local authorities are working in conjunction with federal agencies to ensure a comprehensive search is underway. The tragic deaths of the three young girls have sparked a broader discussion about child safety and domestic violence, escalating the need for vigilance in community support systems.