Hikers’ Tip Sparked Search for Father Accused of Killing His Three Daughters in Washington Wilderness

A report from hikers once gave investigators a possible breakthrough in the search for Travis Decker, a Washington father accused of killing his three young daughters before disappearing into rugged wilderness.

In June 2025, authorities investigating the deaths of Paityn, 9, Evelyn, 8, and Olivia, 5, focused their search on the Ingalls Creek and Colchuck Lake areas after hikers reported seeing a lone man who appeared unprepared for the terrain and seemed to be avoiding other people.

According to the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, a helicopter crew later spotted a hiker away from the main trail who ran out of sight as the aircraft passed overhead. Search teams and K-9 units were deployed, but the sighting did not immediately lead to Decker’s capture.

The girls had been found dead near Rock Island Campground in Chelan County on June 2, 2025, after they failed to return to their mother following a scheduled visit with their father. Authorities ruled their deaths homicides and alleged that Decker was responsible.

Decker, a former U.S. Army soldier with wilderness survival training, became the subject of a major manhunt. Investigators examined evidence from his abandoned pickup truck and appealed to the public for information about his whereabouts.

The case drew national attention because of the victims’ young ages and the difficult terrain where authorities believed Decker might be hiding. Search teams faced steep trails, dense forest and challenging mountain conditions as they pursued leads.

Important later development: The search took a significant turn in September 2025, when authorities located human remains in a remote wooded area that they believed were Decker’s. Officials said DNA testing was needed to confirm the identity. ABC News reported on the discovery on September 19, 2025. This means the June report about a possible sighting should not be presented as a current, unresolved manhunt update.

The deaths of the three sisters and the subsequent search remain a deeply tragic case. The hikers’ report illustrates how information from members of the public can help investigators narrow a search, even when an initial lead does not produce an immediate arrest.

Sources:

• Fox News
• Associated Press
• ABC News