### Community Gathers to Honor Three Sisters Found Dead Near Leavenworth

WENATCHEE, Wash. - In an outpouring of grief and support, more than 300 mourners gathered at Memorial Park in Wenatchee to remember the Decker sisters, Paityn, 9; Evelyn, 8; and Olivia, 5, whose lifeless bodies were tragically discovered near Leavenworth on June 2. The girls had been reported missing after their father, Travis Decker, did not return with them from a scheduled visitation. Authorities have confirmed that Travis Decker remains at large as the investigation continues.

The memorial was marked by heartfelt tributes and an undeniable sense of loss. Among those who spoke was 8-year-old Lilly Jones, a fellow dancer who shared warm memories of Evelyn Decker. "She was really nice. She was a really good dancer. I really think she was a really good friend," Lilly expressed through tears. "I really miss her and I just think it was too early."

Missy Jones, Lilly's mother, shared a deeper connection to the Decker family, having attended college with the girls’ mother, Whitney Decker. "We met in college and lost touch for many years and reconnected last fall for our girls," Missy Jones reflected to KING 5 News. "Those girls were her whole world. She did everything for them."

Community leaders also addressed the crowd, acknowledging the valley's collective grief. "What's in front of our valley is something I wish we could fast forward through," said one speaker. "Though we lack the words to bring comfort, what we don't lack is a sense of community."

Missy Jones spoke proudly of how the close-knit group, especially the young dancers, have supported one another through this challenging time. "Obviously it's hard. I've been really proud of the girls being really supportive of each other and giving each other hugs and talking about their memories of their friends," she said. "We're going to remember her forever, right? Her and her sisters." She added that the dance team has vowed to compete in memory of their fallen teammate.

"Remember what we talked about? We're going to dance even harder," Ms. Jones said before being interrupted by Lilly, a testament to the enduring spirit of community and remembrance that binds them together.