In a disturbing development that has shaken communities across Ontario, court documents reveal that Travis Decker, a Google Canada executive, had researched an escape route to the Caribbean in the weeks before his three young daughters were found dead in their Caledon home.
The tragedy unfolded on March 13 when police discovered the bodies of 7-year-old Emilia, 4-year-old Colette, and 2-year-old Rosalia in their family residence. Their father, 36-year-old Travis Decker, now faces three counts of first-degree murder in what investigators are calling a meticulously planned crime.
According to newly released search warrant documents obtained from the Ontario Court of Justice, Decker’s online search history showed queries about “escape routes from Canada to the Caribbean” and details about countries without extradition treaties with Canada. The searches were conducted approximately two weeks before the deaths of his children.
“This case has elements of extensive premeditation,” said Crown prosecutor Andrea Wilton-Clark during Decker’s bail hearing last week. “The evidence suggests this wasn’t a spontaneous act but one that involved significant forethought and planning.”
Decker, who held a senior position at Google Canada’s marketing department, had separated from his wife Lauren earlier this year. Sources close to the investigation indicate that the couple was in the midst of divorce proceedings, though they continued to share parenting responsibilities for their daughters.
The warrant documents further reveal that investigators found a journal in Decker’s home office containing what appears to be a timeline with specific dates marked, including the day of the incident. Police also discovered several prepaid credit cards and approximately $15,000 in cash hidden in a locked safe in the basement.
Neighbors in the upscale Caledon community described Decker as “seemingly devoted to his children,” making the allegations all the more shocking. “He would always be out playing with the girls in the yard,” said Janet Hempstead, who lives two doors down from the family home. “There was never any indication something was wrong.”
Lauren Decker, who was traveling for work when the tragedy occurred, has requested privacy through her attorney while expressing “unimaginable grief and devastation” at the loss of her daughters.
The case has prompted renewed discussions about family violence in Canada and the psychological welfare of children during divorce proceedings. Dr. Elena Mikhailov, a child psychologist specializing in family trauma, notes that “while most separations proceed without violence, this case highlights the importance of recognizing warning signs and providing adequate support systems for families in transition.”
Decker remains in custody after being denied bail, with his next court appearance scheduled for early May. The prosecution has indicated they will present additional evidence demonstrating alleged efforts to create alibis and cover his tracks.
As the criminal investigation continues, questions remain about how someone without prior criminal history could allegedly commit such a horrific act against his own children. What safeguards can society implement to better protect our most vulnerable citizens when traditional warning signs may not be apparent?
