Travis Decker’s Dog Found Alive Amid Ongoing Manhunt and Blood Sample Analysis from Abandoned Truck

CHELAN COUNTY, WA — As the nationwide manhunt intensifies for Travis Decker, the Washington father charged with the unthinkable—killing his three young daughters—a new twist has emerged in the investigation. Authorities have confirmed that Decker’s dog, who had also been missing since his disappearance, has been safely located.

The safe recovery of the pet offers a small glimmer of relief in a case otherwise dominated by horror and heartbreak.

Travis Decker, 32, remains at large as law enforcement across multiple states searches for him. He is wanted on three counts of first-degree murder, one count of kidnapping, and custodial interference following the shocking deaths of his daughters: Paityn (9), Evelyn (8), and Olivia (5).

A Tragic Discovery Near a Remote Campground

The investigation began after the bodies of the three young girls were found on June 2 in a wooded area near the Rock Island Campground, located along the Columbia River. Just days earlier, the girls had been picked up for a scheduled visitation with their father—one that would end in tragedy.

According to investigators, the children were last seen alive on May 30. What followed was a frantic search that ended in one of the most devastating discoveries the area has ever seen. Autopsy reports have now confirmed the cause of death for all three girls as suffocation. Authorities believe the crime was premeditated.

Chelan County Sheriff’s Department has since released several public statements emphasizing the urgency of locating Decker, who is considered armed and dangerous. A nationwide BOLO (Be On the Lookout) has been issued, with tip lines flooded and multiple agencies involved in the search.

Dog Recovered, Clues from Blood Found in Truck

In a small but significant development, Decker’s dog—who had also vanished around the time of the murders—was recently found alive. Law enforcement has not disclosed the location or condition of the dog, but officials confirmed that the animal is now in safe custody and has been examined by veterinary personnel. Investigators believe the dog may provide additional clues regarding Decker’s movements in the days following the crime.

Meanwhile, forensic teams continue to analyze physical evidence recovered from Decker’s abandoned pickup truck, which was found days after the girls’ bodies were discovered. Inside the vehicle, investigators reportedly found traces of blood. Those samples are currently being processed to determine whether they belong to any of the victims—or potentially to Decker himself.

Sources familiar with the case say authorities are focusing closely on the blood analysis and other forensic evidence to piece together a timeline of events. They are also hoping to determine whether Decker may have sustained injuries while committing the crime or during his escape.

Community Reeling, Mother Speaks Out

The murders have devastated the tight-knit Chelan County community. Candlelight vigils have been held in Wenatchee and surrounding areas, with hundreds of mourners paying tribute to the three sisters. Flowers, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes have been left at makeshift memorials.

The children’s mother, whose name is being withheld for privacy reasons, issued a heart-wrenching statement through her attorney:

“My daughters were the light of my life, and this has left a hole in my soul that will never heal. I ask the public and media to respect our privacy while we grieve. Please, if anyone knows where Travis is, come forward. Help bring justice for Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia.”

She also confirmed that the girls had never previously expressed fear of their father, making the betrayal even more unimaginable.

Ongoing Search and Public Appeal

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office or submit tips anonymously through the national hotline. Travis Decker is believed to be traveling on foot or possibly receiving assistance. He is described as 6 feet tall, 190 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes. Surveillance images taken days before the discovery of the bodies showed him wearing a gray hoodie and jeans.

The U.S. Marshals and FBI are now involved, and a reward has been posted for information leading to Decker’s capture.

As investigators continue their work—analyzing evidence, retracing his steps, and following up on sightings—one thing is clear: this case has shattered a family and rocked a community. And until Travis Decker is found, there will be no peace for those who knew and loved Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia.