Helicopter Buzzes Over Colchuck Lake—Chilling Hush as Suspect Flees

Authorities in Washington continue a massive manhunt for 32-year-old Travis Decker, the father accused of suffocating his three young daughters during a custody visit on May 30. Decker vanished afterward, triggering a cross-state search involving local, state, and federal agents.

A breakthrough came after hikers reported seeing a “lone hiker” near the popular Enchantments hiking area. The man appeared out of place—ill-equipped, avoiding others, and moving off-trail. A sheriff’s helicopter crew later spotted someone fitting that description near Colchuck Lake, but the person fled just before they could engage.

K‑9 units and ground teams picked up his trail, following it to the Ingalls Creek Trailhead off Highway 97. Sheriff Mike Morrison confirmed the suspicion, calling Decker highly skilled in wilderness survival—warning he may evade capture for months—and urged the public to stay vigilant.

Once located, Decker could face first-degree murder, kidnapping, and custodial interference charges related to the deaths of daughters Paityn (9), Evelyn (8), and Olivia (5)—their bodies were found on June 2, bound and suffocated at Rock Island Campground in Wenatchee.

Authorities describe him as armed, dangerous, and trained through service in the U.S. Army infantry from 2013–2021, including deployment in Afghanistan—skills that make tracking particularly difficult. They’re offering a $20,000 reward through the U.S. Marshals for information, and advise anyone who may encounter him to call 911 immediately—do not approach.

Sheriff Morrison entreats Decker directly: “Peacefully surrender—every day you stay out here, you make mistakes, and we will close in.” Authorities say the suspect has “nowhere to go,” but remain cautious given the rugged, remote landscape.