Concerns Over Potential Serial Killer in Lansing, Michigan

The city of Lansing, Michigan is unsettled by the fear of a potential serial killer. The Lansing Police Department is currently investigating the possibility that five recent deaths may be connected to an attacker hiding along the Lansing River Trail.

Criminal Activity and Investigation

Over the last year, police reported five men were attacked along this popular trail. Disturbingly, one victim was discovered stabbed to death under a bridge. All of the victims were homeless, raising questions about the safety of the community. Karen Holt, a criminology professor at Michigan State University, stressed the need for both caution and rationality.

I definitely think we need to be cautious, but we also need to be rational, Holt stated. She highlighted the victims’ vulnerability and the manner of violence used against them.

Recent Incidents and Reactions

• October 14, 2025 – Gino Chouinard, 54, was found unconscious and passed away on October 27, with the cause of death still undetermined.
• July 9, 2026 – Denis Dunnebacke, 70, was discovered unresponsive under a bridge and died on July 16 without a determined cause of death.
• July 13, 2026 – Robert Smith, 57, suffered severe head trauma and died on July 17, acknowledged as a blunt force homicide by the medical examiner.
• August 20, 2026 – Daniel Lusk, 22, was fatally stabbed under the East Michigan Avenue bridge. On September 3, Edward Joseph Smith, 23, was apprehended in connection to this crime.
• August 30, 2026 – Louis Woodruff, 57, was found with extreme facial trauma and died on September 1. Police classified it as a blunt force homicide.

Lansing Police Chief Rob Backus addressed these incidents during a recent press conference. Holt discussed patterns in homicidal behaviors, often targeted at individuals seen as vulnerable and lacking credibility, such as the homeless.

Arrest and Ongoing Investigation

On September 3, Edward Joseph Smith was arrested concerning the stabbing of Daniel Lusk. Although Holt noted that Lusk’s murder is distinct due to the stabbing, Smith has not been linked to the other four deaths or accused of any related crimes.

While no arrests have been made in the other cases, authorities continue to investigate the possibility of a serial killer targeting individuals along the trail.

Public Safety Measures

Holt emphasized the need for vigilance within the community. Don’t walk the trail would be my advice. Maybe walk a different trail, she said. Residents are advised to stay informed and cautious as police work to ensure public safety in the area.