Sheriff’s Office refutes TikTok claim as search for Travis Decker continues

CHELAN COUNTY – Chelan County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) has debunked a TikTok video claiming Travis Decker was taken into custody after a standoff, reiterating that the interagency search effort for the triple homicide suspect remains ongoing.

“To be clear, Mr. Decker is not in custody and CCSO had no part in making the video,” CCSO wrote in a June 17 update.

The search has entered its third week for Decker, who is wanted on three counts of first-degree murder, three counts of first-degree kidnapping, and unlawful flight to avoid prosecution in connection with the deaths of his daughters — Paityn Decker, 9; Evelyn Decker, 8; and Olivia Decker, 5 – who were found near Rock Island Campground on June 2.

According to the update, search operations have continued throughout the region and backcountry areas of Chelan and Kittitas Counties, following up on leads and searching for signs of him. 

Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office has been implementing ground and air resources, leaning on its previous experience searching for suspects in the woods. The Washington Army National Guard is providing aerial surveillance, more air assets, and conducting personnel movements for ground search teams. In addition to developing a criminal case against Decker, CCSO has also continued to assist in search operations with its Air Support Unit, as well as its Search and Rescue (SAR) personnel.

The U.S. Marshals Service, who has assumed the lead role in the search, is conducting in depth investigations, interviews, assessments, and deploying specialized personnel.

CCSO says it does not have any additional information to suggest there is a threat to public safety, particularly within the backcountry. However, it still encourages the public to remain vigilant when recreating and report suspicious information to law enforcement.

Anyone with information about Decker or his whereabouts should contact the nearest U.S. Marshals office, the U.S. Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or USMS Tips: www.usmarshals.gov/tips. The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading directly to Decker’s arrest. 

Decker, 32, of the Wenatchee area, is described as a white male, 5-foot-8, 190 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a tan or green t-shirt and dark shorts.

Authorities advise that Decker should be considered dangerous and warn residents not to attempt to approach or contact him. If you see or believe you have seen Decker, call 911 immediately.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media