### Authorities Intensify Manhunt for Suspected Killer in Chelan County

Authorities are ramping up their search for Travis Decker, the primary suspect in the murders of his three daughters, who was last seen possibly traveling along the Pacific Crest Trail. The manhunt, now in its fourth day, has prompted the closure of significant hiking areas in the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area within the Cascade Range as law enforcement efforts intensify.

Park authorities sealed off multiple trails late Thursday to assist in the expansive search operation. Among the closed paths is the popular network of hiking trails known as the Enchantments. The closures aim to restrict Decker's movement and protect the public as Okanogan County Emergency Management focuses efforts within west Okanogan County and the Pacific Crest Trail.

Decker is considered highly dangerous and potentially armed. Chelan County Sheriff's Office has executed search warrants on various locations and electronic devices connected to Decker, generating new leads in the ongoing investigation.

Residents and cabin owners in the affected counties — Chelan, Kittitas, King, Snohomish, and Okanogan — are advised to remain vigilant. Officials recommend locking all doors, including those of sheds and outbuildings, leaving window blinds open, and keeping exterior lights turned on as precautionary measures.

The park closures include sections of the Pacific Crest Trail and nearby routes such as Rainbow Lake, McAlester Lake, Twisp Pass, Thunder Creek, and Upper Stehekin Valley. These areas will remain inaccessible until further notice.

Decker is sought on probable cause for the murders of his daughters, Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia Decker. The three girls were reported missing over the weekend and were tragically found deceased west of Leavenworth on Monday. The Sheriff's Office has urged the public to contact 911 immediately if they see Decker and to avoid approaching him.

Round-the-clock patrols are being conducted, and officials are encouraging the public to provide tips via the Chelan County Sheriff's Office tip line. As the search continues, updates will be disseminated through official news releases only, without any scheduled press conferences.