Serial Killer Fears Grip Michigan City After Five Bodies Found Near River

LANSING, Mich. – A Midwest police chief has raised the possibility of a serial killer operating in Lansing after five bodies were discovered near the city's river trail. Police Chief Robert Backus stated that the victims, all white men aged between 22 and 70, exhibit similar characteristics in how they were found.

Investigators believe the victims were likely homeless and were potentially sleeping when they sustained injuries during early morning hours along the Lansing River Trail. Backus acknowledged that the investigation is exploring the possibility that these cases are connected. "We look for information, we look for trends, we look for patterns and we have developed some," Backus said during a press conference.

The first victim, 54-year-old Gino Chouinard, was discovered on October 14, 2025, with injuries to his face. He was pronounced dead on October 27, with the medical examiner initially listing an undetermined cause of death.

On July 9 of the following year, police found 70-year-old Denis Dunnebacke unresponsive under the Kalamazoo Street Bridge. He had apparent facial injuries and died a week later. A family member reported he suffered severe brain injuries and spinal fractures. The medical examiner's office is still investigating his case.

Robert Smith, 57, was found unresponsive and bleeding from the head on July 13, near the same location where Chouinard was discovered. Police recognized similarities to Chouinard's case. He died on July 17, and the medical examiner ruled his death a homicide on September 17.

On August 20, police found 22-year-old Daniel Lusk stabbed to death under the Michigan Avenue bridge. In connection with Lusk's death, 23-year-old Edward Smith has been arrested and charged with open murder.

Lansing police discovered their fifth victim, 57-year-old Louis Woodruff, on August 30. He was found with apparent facial injuries and died two days later. This incident is also being investigated as a homicide.

Backus noted that law enforcement faces challenges in determining where and when these incidents occurred along the river trail, citing a lack of surveillance footage. "More cameras would help us in this scenario," he said.

While Edward Smith has been arrested in connection with Lusk's death, Backus cautioned that it is too early to determine if he is a suspect in the other cases. "We have to be very cautious," he stated, emphasizing the need to avoid assuming all suspects are the same.

Lansing police have established a tip line for information related to assaults along the River Trail and have increased police presence in the area.