The manhunt for Travis Decker, the father accused of murdering his three young daughters, continues — but a new development has emerged as investigators confirmed that Decker’s dog has been safely located.

Authorities are still searching for the 32-year-old suspect, who has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder and one count of kidnapping, along with custodial interference. The case has shocked the community in Chelan County, Washington, and drawn national attention.

 Tragedy at Rock Island Campground

The investigation began after the bodies of Paityn Decker (9), Evelyn Decker (8), and Olivia Decker (5) were discovered on June 2 near the Rock Island Campground, just days after a scheduled visitation with their father.

Authorities said the children had last been seen with Travis on May 30, and their tragic deaths have now been officially ruled as homicides by suffocation, following autopsy reports.

 Clues Left Behind: Blood Samples & Abandoned Truck

Although Decker was not found at the scene, his pickup truck was recovered, containing what the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) described as a “large amount of evidence,” including personal belongings and blood samples.

“The suspect’s dog was recovered and turned over to the Humane Society for safe care,” CCSO reported in a press release shared on Monday, June 9.

Blood evidence collected from the vehicle included one sample confirmed to be male and another that was not human. Forensic teams are still processing DNA and fingerprint evidence to build a clearer picture of what happened inside that truck.

 Federal Authorities Take Over the Search

As of Sunday evening, June 8, the active search for Travis Decker has been handed over to federal law enforcement, though local authorities remain in charge of the criminal investigation.

“We had reached a point where we need to rest our local resources,” said the CCSO. “Our command staff continues to be engaged with the search command while we give our teams time off to rest and recuperate and be ready to rejoin the search for, and capture of, the suspect.”

Decker is described as 5’8” tall, with black hair and brown eyes. Officials have issued warnings that he may be dangerous if approached due to his military background.

 A Family Torn Apart

An attorney representing the girls’ mother, Whitney Decker, told PEOPLE that she fears Travis may have taken his own life.

Cozart noted that Travis had previously been a present and active father, but had been struggling with mental health issues that created strain in the marriage.

📞 Public Asked to Help Locate Travis Decker

Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.

If you have seen Travis Decker, do not approach him. Please call 911 immediately.

📞 You can also contact the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at: 509-667-6845
🖥️ Or submit information online through the CCSO tip portal.