CHELAN COUNTY, Wash. – Authorities have uncovered new search areas in the Travis Decker investigation as federal authorities now lead the operation. The investigation has expanded across hundreds of square miles by land, water, and air.
The investigation team has received new analysis from the crime scene evidence, which has provided more information but also raised additional questions. Authorities collected a significant amount of evidence, including many of the suspect’s personal items from the truck found at the scene.
The suspect’s dog was safely turned over to the humane society. Blood samples from the scene revealed one belonged to a man, while another was non-human. Further DNA and fingerprint analyses are ongoing.
An autopsy completed on Friday determined the cause of death to be suffocation, with the manner of death ruled as homicide.
At 6:00 p.m. Sunday night, the command for search operations was handed over to federal authorities. Local resources needed rest, and command staff remains engaged with the search. The CCSO continues to lead the criminal investigation. Any new information about the suspect’s location will be shared with search teams.
Authorities acknowledge public frustration over the lack of details but emphasize the need to protect the investigation’s integrity. They appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation during this complex investigation.
