Concerns Arise Over Potential Serial Killer in Lansing, Michigan

Concerns of a possible serial killer have put residents of Lansing, Michigan, on high alert. The Lansing Police Department is currently investigating the potential connection of five recent deaths along the Lansing River Trail to an alleged attacker.

Criminology professor Karen Holt from Michigan State University advises caution, but also rational thinking. “I definitely think we need to be cautious, but we also need to be rational,” Holt said. Her comments follow a string of attacks along the popular trail, which have left the community shaken.

The victims and the vulnerability of these victims and the method of the violence came to my mind first,” Holt explained.

Lansing police have confirmed that the five men targeted over the past year were all homeless. One victim was discovered stabbed to death under a bridge. The cases have raised questions about community safety. “If we have a community where people can be attacked in this way, then I don’t necessarily know that we can call it a safe community,” Holt noted.

Holt highlighted a pattern seen frequently in cases involving violent offenders. She explained that perpetrators often target vulnerable individuals, believing homelessness may make it less likely they will be caught.

Timeline of Killings

• October 14, 2025: Gino Chouinard, 54, was found unconscious. He died on October 27, and his cause of death is undetermined.
• July 9, 2026: Denis Dunnebacke, 70, found unresponsive under a bridge, died on July 16, cause undetermined.
• July 13, 2026: Robert Smith, 57, died from severe head trauma on July 17, ruled as blunt force homicide.
• August 20, 2026: Daniel Lusk, 22, found fatally stabbed. Edward Joseph Smith, 23, arrested on September 3 in connection.
• August 30, 2026: Louis Woodruff, 57, died from blunt force trauma, found under a bridge.

The investigation has made headlines, especially following the arrest of Edward Joseph Smith for the stabbing of Daniel Lusk. However, Smith hasn’t been linked to the other deaths. Holt mentions the murder of Lusk “stands out” due to the method, distinguishing it from others that involved head injuries.

Lansing Police Chief Rob Backus addressed these cases in a recent press conference reinforcing the need for community vigilance. “Don’t walk the trail would be my advice. Maybe walk a different trail,” Holt advised the community as the investigation continues.