Three Young Sisters Vanish During a Visit With Their Father — Days Later, Investigators Make a Devastating Discovery

The disappearance of three young sisters in Washington state turned into a heartbreaking murder investigation in June 2025, after the children were found dead near a campground and their father became the focus of a nationwide search.

Paityn Decker, 9, Evelyn Decker, 8, and Olivia Decker, 5, had been scheduled to spend time with their father, Travis Decker, in the Wenatchee area. On May 30, their mother reported them missing after their father failed to return them as expected.

Authorities launched a search for the children and their father. Investigators later located Decker’s white GMC pickup truck near the Rock Island Campground, close to Leavenworth, Washington. The vehicle was empty, and a search of the surrounding area led to the discovery of the girls’ bodies on June 2.

An autopsy determined that the children died from suffocation, and their deaths were classified as homicides. Court documents described evidence found near the scene, including plastic bags and zip ties. Investigators continued examining physical evidence and forensic findings as the case developed.

A Search for Their Father

Travis Decker, a former Army serviceman, was wanted in connection with the deaths. Authorities issued warrants involving murder and kidnapping charges and worked with multiple agencies, including the FBI and U.S. Marshals Service, to find him.

The case drew widespread attention as investigators searched rugged wilderness areas and followed leads about his possible whereabouts. Officials warned members of the public not to approach him and urged anyone with information to contact law enforcement.

The deaths devastated the girls’ family and community. Their disappearance had initially prompted an urgent search to bring them home safely; instead, the investigation became a search for answers and accountability.

At the time of the reports, authorities were continuing to pursue the case and examine evidence related to the sisters’ deaths.

Source: nytimes