Police investigate possible serial killer in Lansing after five deaths along River trail

Police Chief Robert Backus announced on Oct. 2 that officers are investigating five recent deaths along the Lansing River Trail, suggesting a possible serial killer. The investigation focuses on patterns and trends among the victims, all of whom were homeless and aged between 22 and 70. Investigators are looking for connections in the timing and location of the attacks, which occurred in the early morning hours.

The first incident occurred on Oct. 14, 2025, when Gino Chouinard, 54, was found with facial injuries. The second case, involving Robert Smith, 57, was discovered on July 13, 2026, and he died on July 17. Denis Dunnebacke, 70, was found unresponsive on July 29, 2026, and died on July 16. Daniel Lusk, 22, was stabbed to death on Aug. 20, 2026, and Edward Joseph Smith was arrested and arraigned on Sep. 3. Louis Woodruff, 57, was found with facial injuries under a bridge on Aug. 30, 2026, and died on Sep. 1.

Backus emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that a suspect has been identified for one of the cases. He questioned whether the suspect could be responsible for all five incidents, noting that the evidence suggests a pattern. Police are continuing to collect data and analyze the cases to determine if a single perpetrator is involved.

Read the full story at The Independent.