DNA Links Travis Decker as the Murderer of His Own Daughters

Investigators have confirmed that DNA found on bloody handprints at the scene of a grisly discovery belongs to Travis Decker, the Washington father accused of murdering his three young daughters.

The confirmation comes nearly a month after his truck was found abandoned at Rock Island Campground, where the bodies of the girls were later discovered. Officials say this evidence rules out the possibility of another suspect and confirms Decker’s direct involvement in the crime.

A Case That Shook the Nation

Travis Decker vanished with his daughters—ages 5, 8, and 9—on May 30, during a scheduled visit. A statewide Amber Alert was issued after the girls failed to return. Their bodies were found days later, sparking national outrage and a manhunt involving federal agents, drones, K-9 units, helicopters, and ground search teams. The scene where the bodies were located revealed signs of restraint, and the method of death has been described as suffocation.

Is Decker Still Alive? The Debate Continues

Despite the passage of time, authorities remain unsure whether Travis Decker is alive or dead. While some believe he may have died by suicide in the vast wilderness surrounding the campground, others point to his military background and extensive survival skills. Search efforts have been expanded to include body recovery missions, but without any concrete leads or sightings, speculation continues.

Cadaver dogs have swept the area with no confirmed alerts. Still, law enforcement maintains the possibility that Decker may be hiding in remote terrain, evading detection thanks to his survivalist training.

Public Tips, False Leads, and Digital Footprints

Before the murders, Decker reportedly conducted online searches about fleeing to Canada and finding remote work. Some hikers have claimed possible sightings near alpine lakes, but none have been verified. Officials also recovered personal items from the scene, including his wallet and mobile phone, which may indicate an intentional effort to disappear.

The search now includes cross-border alerts, and officials have increased the reward for information leading to his capture to $20,000.

Family’s Plea for Justice

The mother of the three girls has issued emotional public statements, pleading for closure. “I just want to know where he is—dead or alive,” she said in a recent news conference. Vigils have been held in memory of the children, with communities across the state uniting in grief and demanding justice.

Authorities continue to urge the public to report any information, warning that Decker may be armed and dangerous.

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