What was supposed to be a routine visit between a father and his daughters has turned into an unthinkable tragedy that has shaken a community—and the nation—to its core.
Paityn, 9. Evelyn, 8. Olivia, just 5 years old. Three bright, innocent young sisters full of life, laughter, and dreams, found dead in the woods of Washington state. Their final moments, authorities believe, were spent not in the safety of home—but in fear, far from anyone who could save them.
The girls were last seen during a scheduled visit with their father, 32-year-old Travis Decker. Just days later, their lifeless bodies were found at a remote campsite in Chelan County. A manhunt is now underway as Decker—charged with three counts of first-degree murder and one count of kidnapping—is on the run.
“It is unknown whether Decker is currently armed, but he may pose a significant risk if approached,” police warn.
Authorities discovered Decker’s white pickup near Rock Island Campground. Nearby, a tent and cooler. Inside the truck: children’s car seats, food, blankets… and blood. Two bloody handprints found near the scene hint at the unimaginable horror the girls may have endured.
Court documents allege the cause of death was likely asphyxiation—a chilling, calculated act.
Travis Decker, a former military man, was reportedly homeless, living out of his vehicle, hotels, and campsites. Though the visitation was court-approved, Decker violated the terms, prompting concern and eventually, heartbreak.
An endangered missing alert was issued on May 31. By June 2, the alert turned into a nightmare: all three girls were found dead.
Now, as authorities intensify their nationwide search, the girls’ mother, Whitney Decker, is left grappling with a loss too immense for words. A family friend has launched a GoFundMe, now nearing $380,000, to help cover funeral costs and offer Whitney time to grieve.
“The pain of this loss is immeasurable,” writes organizer Amy Edwards. “These girls were bright, sweet, and full of promise.”
Their lives were stolen too soon. Their futures, erased. But their names—Paityn, Evelyn, Olivia—must never be forgotten.
As the manhunt for Travis Decker continues, the nation watches, grieves, and demands justice for three little girls who deserved the world.
