Chelan County authorities have confirmed that human remains discovered in the Washington wilderness belong to Travis Decker, the fugitive father accused of murdering his three young daughters. DNA testing ended one of the largest and most tragic manhunts in county history.
Netanyahu Vows to “Finish the Job” in Gaza as Delegates Walk Out of UN Speech
DNA Results Confirm Decker’s Death
Sheriff Michael Morrison announced Thursday that positive DNA results confirmed the remains belonged to Decker. Clothing found near the site matched what he was last seen wearing on surveillance footage.
“We can finally bring a close to this dark chapter of Chelan County,” Morrison said.
How the Remains Were Discovered
On September 18, a drone survey spotted unusual material on a mountainside near Grindstone Mountain. Detectives rappelled from a helicopter and found the remains along with other evidence.
The search was guided by an operational psychologist who had assisted investigators earlier. Morrison credited her insights with helping lead authorities to the location.
A Manhunt That Stretched for Months
The search for Decker lasted nearly four months, spanning three counties and extending into Canada and Mexico. Despite the wide scope, his remains were found less than a mile from where his daughters’ bodies were discovered.
Decker’s abandoned truck was located on June 2 at Rock Island Campground. Nearby, police found the bodies of Olivia (5), Evelyn (8), and Paityn (9), along with plastic bags, zip ties, and a bloody fingerprint.
Community and Family Impact
The girls’ mother, Whitney Decker, described her former husband as homeless and struggling with borderline personality disorder. Through her attorney, she previously said the family was “grateful for law enforcement’s efforts” and touched by worldwide support.
At Thursday’s news conference, Sheriff Morrison addressed her directly:
“To Whitney: I certainly hope you know that we never gave up, and Paityn, Evelyn, Olivia, their memories will live on forever.”
Cause of Death Still Unknown
Authorities have not released details about the condition of Decker’s remains. The local coroner’s office is working to determine cause and time of death, though officials admitted a motive for the killings may never be fully understood.
“Based off the evidence we have, he committed murder. It’s inexcusable, it’s unexplainable,” Morrison said.
Conclusion
With Travis Decker confirmed dead, Chelan County closes a harrowing case that devastated a family and community. Though questions remain about motive, the confirmation brings an end to a months-long search and allows the focus to shift toward remembering three young lives cut short.