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Authorities in Washington state are on the lookout for a 32-year-old man, Travis Decker, who is suspected of killing his three young daughters and abandoning their bodies near a campsite in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The tragic deaths of 5-year-old Olivia, 8-year-old Evelyn, and 9-year-old Paityn Decker came to light after their mother, Whitney Decker, reported them missing following an unreturned visitation with their father.

The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, during a news conference, detailed the case and cautioned the public that Travis Decker is "former Military with extensive training" and should be considered dangerous. His white pickup truck was discovered in a remote area in Leavenworth, Washington, about 40 miles from Wenatchee, where the girls resided with their mother. Tragically, the young girls' bodies were found nearby, with court documents indicating that their wrists were zip-tied and plastic bags were placed over their heads.

The Decker family had previously not encountered issues with their shared custody arrangement, according to Whitney Decker. However, recent concerns about Travis's financial struggles and mental health were noted. The community has been left reeling from the news, with Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison expressing his condolences and emphasizing communal support during this difficult time.

Initially, an Amber Alert was not issued as the situation did not meet the required criteria, given that the father had visitation rights and there was no immediate indication of harm. However, an "endangered missing persons" alert was later activated, allowing law enforcement to use state highway signs to spread vehicle information.

Federal agencies, including the FBI, U.S. Border Patrol, the Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Marshals Service, are aiding in the search for Travis Decker. Authorities describe him as 5-foot-8, 190 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, and last seen wearing a light-colored shirt and dark shorts.

Sheriff Morrison made a direct appeal, urging Travis Decker to turn himself in and take responsibility for his actions, reinforcing the resolve of authorities who, he stated, "will not rest until Travis is located."