Lansing, Michigan, police are investigating whether five deaths along the Lansing River Trail may be connected to a possible serial attacker. All five victims were homeless men, and authorities have identified different causes of death, including blunt-force homicide and stabbing. One man has been arrested in connection with the stabbing death, but police have not linked him to the other four cases. A Michigan State University criminology professor is urging residents to remain cautious while avoiding panic.
| 1) | Investigation centers on five trail deaths |
| 2) | Victims and medical findings show differing patterns |
| 3) | Arrest made in stabbing, broader links unconfirmed |
| 4) | Criminologist urges caution without panic |
| 5) | Police inquiry leaves Lansing residents seeking answers |
Investigation centers on five trail deaths
The Lansing Police Department said it is examining the possibility that five deaths reported over the past year are connected. The cases involve men found along or near the Lansing River Trail, a popular route in the Lansing area. Investigators have not confirmed that a serial killer is responsible, and the inquiry remains focused on determining whether the incidents share a common offender, motive or method.
The deaths occurred between October 14, 2025, and August 30, 2026. Police said the victims were homeless, a detail that has heightened concern about the vulnerability of people using or living near the trail. The investigation was publicly discussed earlier in October as authorities assessed possible links among the cases.
Victims and medical findings show differing patterns
The first case involved Gino Chouinard, 54, who was found unconscious on October 14, 2025. He died on October 27, and his cause of death remains undetermined. Denis Dunnebacke, 70, was found unresponsive under the Kalamazoo Street bridge on July 9, 2026, and died seven days later. His cause of death was also undetermined.
Robert Smith, 57, was found with severe head trauma on July 13 and died four days later. The medical examiner ruled his death a blunt-force homicide. Louis Woodruff, 57, was found with severe facial trauma under the East Cesar Chavez Avenue bridge on August 30 and died September 1. His death was also ruled a blunt-force homicide. Daniel Lusk, 22, was found fatally stabbed under the East Michigan Avenue bridge on August 20.
Arrest made in stabbing, broader links unconfirmed
Police arrested Edward Joseph Smith, 23, on September 3 in connection with Lusk’s death. Authorities have not announced a motive in that case. Smith has not been accused of wrongdoing in the deaths of Chouinard, Dunnebacke, Robert Smith or Woodruff.
The stabbing differs from the other four cases, which involved undetermined causes or head and facial injuries. That contrast is one reason investigators have not publicly confirmed that all five deaths were committed by the same person. Police continue to assess relationships, evidence and the circumstances surrounding each victim.
Criminologist urges caution without panic
Karen Holt, an associate professor of criminal justice at Michigan State University, said residents should take reasonable precautions while allowing investigators to establish the facts. She noted that violent offenders may target people who are especially vulnerable and may believe those victims have fewer resources or less credibility when reporting threats.
“I definitely think we need to be cautious, but we also need to be rational,” Holt said.
Holt said the circumstances involving homeless victims raised concerns about whether a potential attacker could view them as less likely to receive protection or prompt investigative attention. She also said the community should not assume that every case has the same perpetrator before police complete their work.
Police inquiry leaves Lansing residents seeking answers
The investigation has left residents concerned about safety along the trail, particularly near bridges and the locations where victims were found. Holt advised people to avoid walking the Lansing River Trail for now and to consider another route. Her recommendation reflects a precautionary response rather than a police confirmation that an active serial killer is present.
“Don’t walk the trail would be my advice. Maybe walk a different trail,” Holt said.
Police have not confirmed additional arrests tied to the other four deaths. Until investigators establish whether the cases are connected, residents are being urged to remain aware of their surroundings and to report relevant information while avoiding unsupported conclusions.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | Police are examining possible connections among five deaths near the Lansing River Trail. |
| 2 | All five victims were homeless men, according to police. |
| 3 | Edward Joseph Smith was arrested in connection with Daniel Lusk’s stabbing death. |
| 4 | Police have not linked the suspect to the other four deaths. |
| 5 | A criminology professor advised residents to avoid the trail while the investigation continues. |
Summary
Lansing police are investigating a possible connection among five deaths along the Lansing River Trail, but they have not confirmed the presence of a serial killer. One arrest has been made in the stabbing death of Daniel Lusk, while the other cases remain under investigation. Residents have been advised to use caution and consider alternate routes until authorities determine whether the deaths are related.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are police investigating in Lansing?
Police are examining whether five deaths involving homeless men near the Lansing River Trail may be connected to one attacker.
Has a suspect been arrested?
Edward Joseph Smith, 23, was arrested in connection with the stabbing death of Daniel Lusk. Police have not connected him to the other four deaths.
What safety advice has been given?
Karen Holt advised residents to avoid walking the Lansing River Trail and to choose another route while the investigation continues.
