Bones Found in Search for Travis Decker Near Campsite Where His Daughters Were Discovered
Investigators searching for Travis Decker, a man wanted in connection with the murders of his three young daughters, discovered bones near the Rock Island Campground in Chelan County, Washington. The remains were found during a recent grid search by a large team of law enforcement and sent for forensic analysis to determine whether they are human and if they could be connected to Decker or his children.
Tragic Background and Ongoing Manhunt
Travis Decker, 33, has been missing since late May 2025, shortly after picking up his daughters—Paityn, 9; Evelyn, 8; and Olivia, 2—from their mother’s home for scheduled visitation. The girls were found three days later near the campsite with plastic bags over their heads. The county medical examiner ruled their deaths homicides by asphyxiation.
Authorities believe Decker is responsible for the killings and have issued a warrant for his arrest on multiple counts of first-degree murder and kidnapping. Decker’s disappearance has triggered a massive search involving over 100 personnel, including FBI agents, Washington State Patrol, U.S. Marshals, and local law enforcement agencies.
Details of the Bone Discovery and Forensic Analysis
Sheriff Mike Morrison described the bone discovery as inconclusive pending lab results, as it wasn’t immediately clear if the remains are human or animal. The findings were sent to Central Washington University’s anthropology department for detailed examination.
The rugged terrain and presence of wildlife pose challenges for investigators, as scattered and partial remains are common in such environments. Morrison emphasized the methodical nature of the search and the importance of pursuing every credible lead to bring closure to the victims' families.
Search Efforts Continue with Planned Expansion
Following the latest findings, search operations have expanded beyond the initial few acres near the campsite to cover over 247 acres in an oval-shaped grid. Further large-scale searches are planned for September, involving federal partners and resources.
The ongoing search necessitates temporary closures of campgrounds and trails in the area, inconveniencing visitors but underscoring the law enforcement commitment to thorough investigation.
Community Impact and Response
The murders of Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia have deeply impacted the Chelan County community. Sheriff Morrison has called on residents to support one another and the victims’ families during this difficult time. He acknowledged the profound grief, especially as the school year begins without the children.
Community members and investigators alike remain hopeful for justice and closure, with the law enforcement coalition dedicated to bringing an end to the case.
Conclusion: Hope Amid a Tragic Investigation
The discovery of bones near the Rock Island Campground provides a possible break in the tragic case of Travis Decker and his daughters. While forensic testing will determine the significance of the remains, the diligent efforts by multiple agencies reflect a persistent pursuit of truth.
As the search intensifies and the community mourns, authorities remain committed to uncovering answers and ensuring justice for the young victims whose lives were cut short in this heartbreaking case.## Bones Found During Search for Travis Decker Near Campsite of His Daughters’ Deaths
Investigators recently discovered bones near Rock Island Campground in Chelan County, Washington, during their ongoing search for Travis Decker, the 33-year-old man wanted in connection with the murders of his three young daughters. The bones, found amid painstaking grid searches, have been sent to forensic experts to determine whether they are human and, if so, whom they belong to.
Background: A Tragic Family Case Unfolds
Decker’s disappearance came after his daughters—Paityn (9), Evelyn (8), and Olivia (2)—were found dead with plastic bags over their heads at the campsite on June 2, 2025. The girls had been picked up by Decker for visitation from their mother on May 30 but never returned. The county medical examiner ruled the cause of death as asphyxiation, classifying the incident as a homicide. DNA found on the plastic bags matched Decker’s, deepening suspicions against him.
Challenges of the Extensive Manhunt
The search for Decker has involved over 100 law enforcement personnel, including the FBI, state police, U.S. Marshals, and local authorities. Despite months of searching rugged and densely forested terrain covering hundreds of square miles, agents have yet to locate Decker himself.
Sheriff Mike Morrison explained that the terrain and presence of wildlife complicate recovery efforts. It is common in such settings to find only scattered or partial remains, as animals may disperse bones over large areas.
Continuing Search and Expanding Efforts
Following the discovery of the bones, search operations have expanded to cover more ground. A large-scale search with federal partners is planned for September. Campgrounds and trails around the Rock Island area have been temporarily closed to allow investigators to work safely and efficiently.
Law enforcement remains cautious but determined to follow all leads. Officials emphasized that searching for remains and evidence in such an extensive and remote region takes time and patience.
Community's Grief and Call for Closure
The deaths of the three young sisters have left the Chelan County community deeply shaken. As families begin a new school year without the children, Sheriff Morrison called for communal support and continuing hope for justice.
Authorities are committed to providing answers to the grieving family and delivering accountability in this heartbreaking case.
Conclusion: A Grim Turning Point in a Harrowing Investigation
The recent find of bones near Rock Island Campground marks a critical juncture in the investigation into the murders of Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia Decker. While it remains unclear whether the remains belong to the missing suspect or other victims, forensic examination may provide clarity.
The extensive manhunt and forensic efforts reflect dedication to solving this tragic case and honoring the memory of the young girls whose lives were senselessly taken.