Remains of Travis Decker Confirmed in Washington State

Forensic tests have confirmed that human remains discovered on a remote slope of Grindstone Mountain in central Washington belong to Travis Decker, a former soldier wanted in connection with the deaths of his three young daughters earlier this year.

Decker, 32, had been the subject of an extensive manhunt after failing to return his daughters—Paityn, 9, Evelyn, 8, and Olivia, 5—to their mother following a scheduled visit. Their bodies were found near a campsite on June 2, three days after they were reported missing, with autopsies confirming they had been suffocated.

The remains were located less than a mile from where the girls were discovered. DNA testing confirmed Decker's identity. Sheriff Mike Morrison expressed condolences and hoped that Decker's former wife could find some closure now that he has been accounted for.

Decker had a history of mental health struggles, prompting his ex-wife to seek restrictions on his custody. He had served eight years in the Army and was reportedly living out of his truck. A massive search effort involving over 100 officials was launched across rugged terrain, as Decker had extensive survival and navigation training.

The Chelan County Sheriff's Office continues to work on determining the cause and time of his death.