KITTITAS COUNTY, Wash. – Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office Inspector Chris Whitsett discussed the ongoing manhunt for Travis Decker, the suspect wanted in a triple murder, with FOX 13 Seattle, drawing parallels to a 2020 manhunt in the same Washington wilderness.

Whitsett highlighted similarities in terrain, interagency coordination challenges and the persistence required for extended searches. He also emphasized that both suspects were believed to be familiar with living off-grid, and public assistance was crucial in resolving the 2020 case.

Keep reading to learn more about the search for Decker and what information authorities are using from a 2020 manhunt in the same area to help them locate him.

A massive manhunt for an “armed and dangerous” murder suspect in the woods of Kittitas County took place around Memorial Day in 2020. Authorities had been searching the US 97 Blewett Pass-Mineral Springs area for Jorge Alcantara-Gonzalez.

Alcantara-Gonzalez was charged with the killing of missing 41-year-old Kent man, Ian Eckles, along with possession of two stolen vehicles and numerous other thefts and burglaries in Kittitas County, including the theft of firearms.

Similar 2020 manhunt for murder, theft suspect in Kittitas County

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Whitsett explained that lessons learned from the 2020 manhunt, particularly regarding communication difficulties and the need for long-term planning, are being applied to the current search for Decker. He also clarified the geographical connection between the Icicle Creek area, the Enchantments and Kittitas County, noting that trails connect these rugged, undeveloped areas.

Authorities are concerned Decker may seek refuge in abandoned structures or vacation homes, and they are urging property owners to be vigilant and utilize security cameras.

Whitsett also reiterated that public information was vital in ending the previous manhunt and remains the best chance for resolving the current search for Decker.