Lansing Police Probe Five River Trail Deaths as Potential Serial Killer Case

Key points

• Five victims, aged 22 to 70, were found along the Lansing River Trail between October 2025 and September 2026.
• All victims were unhoused men; four suffered blunt force facial injuries, while one was stabbed.
• Police chief Robert Backus stated the cases are being investigated for potential links but did not confirm a serial killer.
• Edward Smith, 24, was arrested and charged with open murder in connection with the August 2026 stabbing of Daniel Lusk.
• Investigations are hindered by a lack of surveillance cameras and witnesses, as attacks occurred in the early morning hours.
• Police have installed camera trailers and increased patrols, while advocacy groups assist in moving unhoused individuals away from the trail.

Background

This investigation follows a pattern of violent crimes targeting vulnerable populations in various regions, including recent serial killer cases in Brazil and South Africa. In the US, the FBI recently launched a forensic sweep in Philadelphia linked to missing women, highlighting ongoing challenges in connecting disparate crimes. The current Lansing case mirrors previous instances where authorities struggled to link deaths due to limited evidence and unclear causes of death, as seen in the Ekurhuleni femicide crisis.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News and CBS News both reported on the police chief's statement that the deaths may be related, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the cause of death for two victims. CBS News highlighted expert opinions from criminologist David Hayes and Professor Karen Holt, who noted that serial killers do not always use the same method, explaining the mix of blunt force and stabbing. ClickOnDetroit provided detailed timelines of each victim's discovery and death, noting that the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office declined to comment. All outlets agreed on the lack of surveillance and witnesses as a primary investigative hurdle, but differed in emphasis: NBC focused on the chief's direct quotes, CBS on expert analysis, and ClickOnDetroit on the specific locations and times of the incidents.

Why it matters

The case raises significant public safety concerns in Lansing, particularly for the unhoused community. The potential link between multiple deaths over a year suggests a persistent threat that may not be immediately apparent. The investigation highlights the challenges of policing areas with limited surveillance and the vulnerability of homeless individuals to violence. It also underscores the importance of community outreach and increased police presence in preventing further incidents.

What to watch

Police will continue to investigate the five cases, looking for patterns and trends. They have set up a dedicated tip line and increased patrols along the River Trail. Advocacy groups are working to keep unhoused individuals away from the trail during early morning hours. The investigation may lead to further arrests or charges if connections between the cases are established.