Authorities in Washington State have launched a manhunt for Travis Decker, a 32-year-old former soldier, who is suspected of kidnapping and murdering his three young daughters.

The FBI is now involved in the search, alongside local police and U.S. marshals, as concerns rise over Decker’s military training, which has led officials to classify him as a 'significant risk' to the public.

The situation unfolded after the girls’ mother reported them missing when they failed to return from a scheduled visit with their father.

Evelyn, Paityn, and Olivia Decker, aged nine, eight, and five respectively, were initially meant to spend just three hours with Decker.

Police became involved Friday after the mother expressed her concerns about her ex-husband's potential mental health issues.

Initially, Wenatchee Police requested the public to keep an eye out for Decker's white pickup truck.

However, authorities later located the vehicle approximately 70 miles east of Seattle on Monday.

The girls' bodies were found nearby, prompting an intensified search for Decker.

Whitney Decker, the children’s mother, described past struggles with Travis's mental health, stating that he had faced challenges since his military service.

In an interview, she conveyed her belief that, while he might be impulsive, he deeply loves his children and does not view him as inherently dangerous.

In response to the tragic events, a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to support the grieving mother, raising over $50,000 within two days.

According to the fundraiser organizer, the girls were described as 'true light in this world,' highlighting the profound loss experienced by their community.

The case has drawn attention to the responsiveness of law enforcement, with criticism directed at authorities for the delay in issuing an Amber Alert for the girls after the initial report.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on locating Decker and understanding the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.