Tragic Case of Decker Daughters: Ongoing Investigation
Recently released audio from court hearings presents Travis Decker, the man accused of murdering his three daughters, arguing for overnight visitation rights. In the recordings, he insists he never put his children at risk.
Travis Decker, 32, has become the focus of a manhunt after being charged with the murder and kidnapping of his daughters: Paityn, 9, Evelyn, 8, and Olivia, 5. The girls were found deceased at a remote campground in Chelan County, Washington, shortly after they went missing during a court-ordered visit with their father.
Decker vanished on May 30, the day he was supposed to return the girls after visitation. Their mother, Whitney Decker, reported the girls missing when he did not return and expressed concern that while Travis had mental health struggles, he had always been responsible when it came to his daughters.
In court audio dated September 27, 2024, Decker spoke about his visitation rights, sharing that he had taken the girls to busy, paid campsites. He stated, "We’ve never done anything that was unsafe," and highlighted their shared love for camping.
Following the discovery of the girls’ bodies, the Washington State Patrol described Decker as someone living in his vehicle or various hotels and campgrounds. He acknowledged that his situation was challenging, but emphasized that his daughters had been a part of his life and that he always took precautions.
In a parenting plan filed in Chelan County Superior Court, Whitney sought to limit Decker’s time with the children due to concerns about his parenting capabilities and mental health. She requested that he undergo evaluations for anger management and psychiatric assessment.
Currently, Decker is allowed limited visitation with his daughters under strict conditions. The search for him continues, with authorities urging anyone with information to contact them immediately.
