Pacific Northwest Missing Persons Project

Between Survival and Silence


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In this episode, we explore two men who entered the wilderness under very different circumstances—one who fought to live, and one who vanished into the shadows.

First, we follow the incredible survival story of Ralph Sawyer, a 52-year-old mountain biker from Gresham, Oregon, who disappeared in Mount Hood National Forest and was missing for six long days. Against the odds, Ralph found his way back, relying on instinct, grit, and the simple decision to follow a creek downhill. His story is a reminder that preparation and perseverance can mean the difference between life and death.

Then we shift to the ongoing manhunt for Travis Caleb Decker, a decorated military veteran accused of murdering his three young daughters before disappearing into the backcountry of Washington. With his survival training and ability to live off-grid, Decker has evaded capture for months. Authorities now believe he may be receiving help, and the case has sparked debate over law enforcement strategy, mental health, and reforms to the Amber Alert system.

Two men. Two outcomes. One truth: the wilderness doesn’t lie.

📰 Sources

Ralph Sawyer – Survival Story

  • KATU News: Man survives 6 days lost in Mt. Hood wilderness

  • KGW News: Search and Rescue teams celebrate incredible outcome

  • Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office: Press Release – Missing Mountain Biker Found

Travis Decker – Ongoing Manhunt

  • KOMO News: New potential sighting reignites manhunt

  • People.com: Officials believe Decker may be getting help

  • The Sun (US): Travis Decker sighting near Snoqualmie

  • Fox 13 Seattle: Search efforts shift focus

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Pacific Northwest Missing Persons ProjectBy Pacific Northwest Missing Persons Project

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