Authorities Await DNA Confirmation on Remains Believed to Be Travis Decker

Federal prosecutors have requested the dismissal of charges against Travis Decker, the former soldier accused of murdering his three young daughters, following information from the U.S. Marshals Service indicating Decker is deceased.

The Chelan County Sheriff's Office discovered human remains in a remote wooded area near Leavenworth, Washington, believed to be Decker's. However, they emphasize that DNA testing is still underway to confirm the identity.

"We are currently awaiting DNA test results from the state Crime Lab, which are expected to be returned within the next few days," the sheriff's office stated.

The bodies of Decker's daughters—9-year-old Paityn, 8-year-old Evelyn, and 5-year-old Olivia—were found in June at a campground near Leavenworth. Autopsies determined they died from suffocation, with their wrists bound by zip ties and plastic bags placed over their heads.

Decker, 32, had been on a scheduled visit with his daughters but failed to return them to their mother. His ex-wife had previously expressed concerns about his mental health and stability, noting he was often living out of his truck.

A former Army infantryman with training in navigation and survival, Decker had been the subject of a months-long manhunt. The U.S. Marshals Service had offered a $20,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.

Authorities plan to hold a press conference once DNA results are confirmed to share findings and address questions from the media and public.