Lansing, Michigan, is on edge as police investigate the unnerving possibility that five recent deaths may be connected to a serial attacker along the popular Lansing River Trail. Criminology professor Karen Holt from Michigan State University advised the community to exercise caution and rationality.

Unsettling Pattern

Police announced earlier this month that they are probing the possibility of a connection between five deaths that have occurred over the past year. The victims were all homeless men, and the attacks have taken place along the river trail. One victim was found stabbed to death under a bridge, while others died from blunt force trauma or head injuries.

"As someone who studies violence, the first thing that came to mind was the victims and the vulnerability of these victims and the method of the violence," Holt told Fox News Digital. She noted that offenders often target vulnerable individuals, believing it decreases their chances of being caught.

Timeline of Incidents

The incidents under investigation include:

  • Oct. 14, 2025: Gino Chouinard, 54, found unconscious; died Oct. 27, cause undetermined.
  • July 9, 2026: Denis Dunnebacke, 70, found unresponsive; died July 16, cause undetermined.
  • July 13, 2026: Robert Smith, 57, found with severe head trauma; died July 17, ruled blunt force homicide.
  • Aug. 20, 2026: Daniel Lusk, 22, found fatally stabbed; Edward Joseph Smith, 23, arrested Sept. 3.
  • Aug. 30, 2026: Louis Woodruff, 57, found with severe facial trauma; died Sept. 1, ruled blunt force homicide.

Holt pointed out that Lusk's stabbing death stands out due to the method, differing from the blunt force trauma observed in other cases.

Community Advisory

While police have arrested Edward Joseph Smith in connection with Daniel Lusk's stabbing, he has not been accused in the other four deaths. Authorities have not yet confirmed the existence of a serial killer. However, Holt emphasized the need for vigilance and advised residents to avoid the trail, suggesting "Don't walk the trail would be my advice. Maybe walk a different trail."