Police Release Doorbell Camera Footage of Travis Decker, Citing Suspect’s Advanced Survival Skills as Manhunt Intensifies

Authorities have released doorbell camera footage showing Travis Decker, the man accused in a recent brutal homicide, as the nationwide manhunt for the fugitive intensifies. Law enforcement officials are warning the public to remain vigilant, emphasizing Decker’s extensive knowledge of wilderness survival and combat training, which they say makes him particularly dangerous and difficult to apprehend.

The newly released video, captured by a home security camera in a remote community just outside Boise, Idaho, shows Decker walking briskly past a rural residence shortly after 4 a.m. last Thursday. Dressed in camouflage gear and carrying what appears to be a large backpack, the suspect briefly glances at the camera before disappearing into the surrounding woods. Authorities believe this was one of several sightings since Decker fled the scene of a grisly homicide in central Idaho two weeks ago.

Murder Charges and Background

Decker, 38, is the primary suspect in the killing of 42-year-old Benjamin Rourke, who was found dead in his mountain cabin with multiple stab wounds and signs of a violent struggle. Rourke, a retired forest ranger and father of two, was reportedly a long-time acquaintance of Decker. According to investigators, the motive for the murder remains unclear, though sources close to the case suggest a history of personal disputes and possible financial grievances.

Decker disappeared shortly after the killing, prompting an intensive search involving federal, state, and local agencies. A warrant for first-degree murder has been issued, and the FBI has since joined the manhunt due to Decker’s apparent ability to evade capture in challenging terrain.

A Dangerous Survivalist

Police have described Travis Decker as a seasoned outdoorsman with a deep familiarity with backcountry navigation, hunting, and guerrilla-style survival tactics. Former military service records confirm that Decker served in the U.S. Army for nearly a decade, including multiple deployments in Afghanistan. During his time in the military, he was trained in survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE) techniques, skills that law enforcement believe he is now using to elude capture.

“He’s not just hiding in the woods,” said Sheriff Colton Hayes of Valley County. “He knows how to live out there indefinitely — how to avoid trail cameras, cover his tracks, and live off the land. This is not your average fugitive. He’s methodical and prepared.”

Officials have noted that Decker likely has access to caches of supplies, possibly hidden in advance. He may also be armed with high-powered firearms, though the doorbell footage did not visibly confirm whether he was carrying weapons.

Public Safety and Community Alert

Law enforcement agencies across Idaho, Montana, and parts of Oregon have issued alerts, advising residents in forested and mountainous regions to report any suspicious activity. The FBI has also offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to Decker’s arrest and is urging backcountry hikers, hunters, and rural property owners to exercise caution.

In communities near the Payette National Forest, authorities have gone door to door distributing flyers and speaking with residents about the potential risk. Temporary trail closures and increased patrols have been enacted in several regions, especially near known access points to wilderness areas.

“He’s blending into these environments like a ghost,” said U.S. Marshal Deputy Gina Hernandez. “But no matter how remote he goes, we’re narrowing the gap.”

Doorbell Camera Footage Becomes Crucial

The doorbell video represents the clearest visual confirmation of Decker’s whereabouts since his disappearance. Investigators are using the timestamp and location of the footage to reorient their search grid and have deployed drones and tracking dogs into the area.

Digital forensics teams are also working with tech companies to enhance the footage and search for thermal or infrared signatures in surrounding zones, hoping to identify movement patterns or hidden shelters.

“We’re asking anyone in possession of trail cams, security cameras, or dash cams in the area to come forward,” said Chief Investigator Elaine Maddox. “Even the smallest detail could be the clue that helps us bring this suspect into custody.”

Community on Edge

As the manhunt stretches into its second week, local residents are growing increasingly anxious. Many have reported sleepless nights, armed themselves for protection, and are taking extra precautions when venturing outdoors.

“It’s terrifying,” said one local rancher. “You think you’re safe in the middle of nowhere, but knowing someone with that kind of training could be nearby — it changes everything.”

Authorities stress that while Decker has not made any known threats against the public, he should be considered armed, dangerous, and likely to resist capture.

How to Help

Anyone with information about Travis Decker’s movements is urged to contact the FBI tip line or their local law enforcement agency. Officials have reiterated that Decker is believed to be acting alone and has no known accomplices at this time.

The doorbell camera footage has been released to the public via the department’s official website and social media channels in hopes that someone may recognize Decker or his gear, or recall seeing him in nearby towns, gas stations, or hiking trails.

As the search continues, authorities remain committed to bringing justice to the family of Benjamin Rourke and ensuring the safety of residents across the region.