Decker, who is believed to be armed and highly skilled in survival, has been the subject of an intensive multi-agency manhunt across Washington state.
CHELAN COUNTY, Wash. — Authorities are beginning to reopen recreation areas previously closed during the ongoing search for Travis Decker, a former Army Ranger charged with murder for the deaths of his three daughters.
Icicle Road near Leavenworth and nearby recreation areas in Chelan County reopened June 8.
Overnight permits for the Enchantments will resume Monday, June 9, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
“A lot of people heading up to the Enchantments for day hikes or permitted overnight stays and we had plenty of people looking for another option because they’re coming from far away, a lot of these people,” said Tanner Bombardieri with Der Sportsman in Leavenworth. “To have their main event kind of shut down, they’re looking for another place to camp, so we field a lot of those questions.”
Park officials have also opened Stehekin area roads and trails for day use. Overnight stays on previously closed trails, including backcountry camps, remain closed through June 12.
“Personally had never seen something like that, at least that sweeping,” Bombardieri said. “It was surprising to see that. We were kind of at a loss of where to point people because of like how much was closed, there weren’t very many options left over.”
The children’s bodies were found on June 2 west of Leavenworth. Decker, who is believed to be armed and highly skilled in survival, has been the subject of an intensive multi-agency manhunt across remote areas of Washington state.
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“We will be removing the roadblocks and opening the Icicle River Road as we have determined there to be no credible threat in that area,” the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement Saturday evening. “We have notified the USFS that they can reopen the recreation areas as well.”
Roughly 100 officers from multiple local, state, and federal agencies have been involved in the search. Investigators spent several days canvassing dozens of structures, river sections, and forested terrain near Decker’s last known location. Officials say they continue to follow leads developed through public tips and search warrants.
Though the area is now open, officials are urging residents and visitors to remain alert.
“We ask the public to continue helping in this search,” the sheriff’s office said.
Residents are being asked to review security or doorbell camera footage for any possible sightings of Decker. Those venturing into the woods or other recreation areas are encouraged to report anything suspicious and, if possible, note the time and GPS location.
On Friday evening, Gov. Bob Ferguson authorized the deployment of Washington National Guard resources, consisting of helicopter transport for law enforcement personnel. The sheriff’s office called the assistance “invaluable,” citing the urgency and complexity of the ongoing search.
Meanwhile, the Canada Border Services Agency said it is working in coordination with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to identify wanted individuals and protect communities on both sides of the border.
Anyone with information about Decker’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 509-667-6845.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates
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