Terrifying hiking encounter in Washington state could be accused killer dad, Travis Decker

The search for Travis Decker could soon be over, the former soldier with wilderness survival training, accused of murdering his three daughters, after hikers reported a chilling encounter in the remote wilderness near Blewett Pass in Washington state.

Multiple hikers recently alerted law enforcement after spotting a lone man resembling Decker in the Enchantments area—specifically near Colchuck Lake, a rugged alpine zone in the central Cascades. The man, described as “ill-prepared for the trail and weather conditions,” reportedly avoided other hikers and moved quickly to escape view.

Helicopters spotted someone who could be Decker

Helicopter surveillance later confirmed the presence of a man matching Decker’s description moving off-trail. When aerial units approached, he reportedly fled into dense forest. Search teams and K-9 units followed a trail from the Colchuck Lake basin down toward the Ingalls Creek trailhead, located just south of Blewett Pass along Highway 97.

A massive manhunt for Decker, 32, was launched after the bodies of his three young daughters—Paityn, 9; Evelyn, 8; and Olivia, 5—were found dead inside a tent on June 2. Authorities discovered the bodies near a remote campsite off Icicle Road, outside of Leavenworth. Police also found his truck and dog nearby. Investigators recovered male blood at the scene.

Decker could be armed and dangerous

Prosecutors in Chelan County have charged Decker with three counts of first-degree murder, as well as kidnapping and custodial interference. Authorities describe Decker as armed, dangerous, and highly trained in survival tactics as a former infantryman in the U.S. Army and Army National Guard. Officials say he may be attempting to flee to Canada, citing online searches recovered from his devices.

Blewett Pass, a mountainous region between Leavenworth and Ellensburg, is known for its unforgiving terrain and labyrinth of backcountry trails. The Enchantments and Ingalls Creek areas are popular with seasoned hikers but can become treacherous without proper equipment or preparation.

Law enforcement has now shifted the search effort to focus on a stretch between Ingalls Creek, Valley Hi, and the southern slopes of Blewett Pass. Multiple agencies—including the U.S. Marshals Service, Border Patrol, Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, and Washington State Patrol—are coordinating a grid-style sweep with aerial support and ground teams. The search has deployed over 100 personnel in recent days.

The most credible lead in the search

Authorities say the recent sighting is the most credible lead in the week-long search. A $20,000 reward remains active for information leading to Decker’s arrest.

Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison urged hikers and residents to remain vigilant. “If you believe you’ve seen Decker or encounter someone suspicious in these remote areas, do not engage. Contact 911 immediately,” Morrison said.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the U.S. Marshals tip line at 1-800-336-0102.

The manhunt continues as authorities race against time and terrain to capture a man they believe is not only hiding—but capable of surviving for weeks in the unforgiving wilderness.