Travis Decker Declared Dead Months After Daughters’ Deaths

U.S. Marshals have declared Travis Decker deceased. The 32-year-old was the sole suspect in the killings of his three young daughters. The development ends a three-month nationwide manhunt.

Authorities confirmed the news in new legal documents. This comes after remains believed to be his were found in Washington state.

Discovery of Remains and Family’s Response

Investigators discovered the remains days ago in a remote area. The Chelan County Sheriff’s office stated preliminary findings suggest they belong to Travis Decker. Positive identification is still pending official confirmation.

Upon the discovery, the family’s attorney, Arianna Cozart, released a statement. She said the family was praying the remains were his. They expressed gratitude for the efforts of law enforcement.

A Tragic Timeline of Events

The search began on May 30. Travis Decker failed to return his daughters after a court-ordered visitation. Their mother, Whitney Decker, reported them missing.

The bodies of Paityn, 9, Evelyn, 8, and Olivia, 5, were found days later. They were discovered at the Rock Island Campground near Leavenworth. Autopsies determined the cause of death was suffocation.

According to Reuters, evidence at the scene included plastic bags and cable ties. DNA matching Travis Decker was found on this evidence. This led authorities to name him as the only suspect.

The conclusion of this manhunt brings a somber close to a case that horrified the nation. While Travis Decker will never face a jury, the memory of his three daughters remains the central focus of this tragedy.

Info at your fingertips

What were the charges against Travis Decker?

Travis Decker was charged with three counts of first-degree murder. He was also charged with first-degree kidnapping. The charges were filed after his daughters were found deceased.

How did the girls die?

The Chelan County Medical Examiner ruled the deaths homicides. The cause of death for all three girls was suffocation. Evidence at the scene included plastic bags placed over their heads.

What did the divorce agreement say about visitation?

The 2022 divorce agreement allowed Travis Decker visitation every other weekend. He was court-ordered to complete anger management and counseling. The visit when the girls disappeared was part of this plan.

How did Whitney Decker honor her daughters?

Whitney Decker held a memorial service for Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia in June. She shared heartfelt stories about their unique personalities. She described them as incredible children with open hearts.

What evidence linked Travis Decker to the crime scene?

The Washington State Crime Lab found a key link. DNA profiles matching Travis Decker were identified on the plastic bags and cable ties. This evidence was found near the victims’ bodies.