### Intense Manhunt for Ex-Soldier Suspected of Killing Three Young Daughters

Authorities have shut down numerous widely visited campgrounds and backpacking spots along Washington's Pacific Crest Trail amidst an extensive search for a former Army soldier suspected of murdering his three young daughters. Travis Caleb Decker, 32, has been on the run since his daughters—9-year-old Paityn Decker, 8-year-old Evelyn Decker, and 5-year-old Olivia Decker—were discovered dead at a secluded campsite near Leavenworth.

The girls' mother reported them missing on the night of May 30 after Decker failed to return them to her Wenatchee home following a scheduled visit. In response, Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has mobilized the state's National Guard, pledging helicopter support for law enforcement officers searching the remote regions where Decker might be hiding. "The brutal murder of these young children has shocked our state," Governor Ferguson stated, stressing his commitment to aiding law enforcement efforts to deliver justice.

The Chelan County Sheriff's Office reports that over 100 officers are engaged in a search that encompasses the rugged terrain of the central Washington Cascade Mountains. Public support has been overwhelming, with more than 500 tips submitted. In a precautionary measure, nearby counties have been alerted to the possibility of Decker crossing their borders through the dense forest.

Whitney Decker, his ex-wife, had filed a petition last September to amend their parenting plan, citing his deteriorating mental health and unstable living conditions. In her petition, Whitney expressed concerns about the safety of their daughters during overnight visits. She claimed Travis frequently lived out of his truck and lacked proper housing. Despite her concerns, she acknowledged his love for their children and his sacrifices for the country.

Law enforcement has cautioned residents in remote areas to secure their properties and remain vigilant. While there is no confirmation that Decker is armed, officials consider him dangerous, with a $20,000 reward offered for information leading to his capture.

In another development, an online fundraiser for Whitney Decker has raised over $1 million. During a news conference, friends and supporters emphasized the need for improvements in the state's Amber Alert system and better mental health support for veterans. The Wenatchee police had initially requested an Amber Alert, but the request was denied. Instead, an "endangered missing person alert" was issued, which did not trigger emergency notifications.

The search intensified when a deputy located Decker's truck near Rock Island Campground, where blood-stained handprints were found on the tailgate. The girls’ bodies were soon discovered down an embankment, bound with zip ties. The county coroner is awaiting pathology results to determine the cause and time of death.

In light of these events, numerous campgrounds, trails, and areas within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest have been closed, including segments of the Pacific Crest Trail and areas around Stehekin near Lake Chelan. The community remains on high alert as the search for Decker continues.