Lansing Police Investigated Five River Trail Deaths
Authorities are examining potential links between deaths occurring along the Lansing River Trail.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Accidents
The Lansing Police Department is investigating five deaths that occurred along the Lansing River Trail. Officials are currently comparing injury patterns, victim demographics, and the timing of the incidents to determine if the cases are related.
Why it matters
Police are analyzing these deaths to identify if a single perpetrator or pattern of violence is responsible for the fatalities. The investigation aims to determine if the incidents are connected following shared characteristics, including blunt-force trauma found on four victims.
Five deaths are under investigation following reports of blunt-force trauma to the head in four instances. While Edward Joseph Smith is charged with open murder for the death of 22-year-old Daniel Lusk, the broader investigation into all five cases continues.
The players
Lansing Police Department
This is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for investigating crimes and maintaining public safety within Lansing.
Edward Joseph Smith
He is a 23-year-old individual currently charged with open murder in the death of Daniel Lusk.
The details
Investigators are scrutinizing evidence related to the victims, who include Gino Chouinard, Denis Dunnebacke, Robert Smith, and Louis Woodruff. The deaths of Robert Smith and Louis Woodruff have been officially classified as homicides as the department seeks to link the incidents.
Timeline
October 14, 2025: Gino Chouinard was found injured.
June 14, 2026: Police increased patrols along the river trail.
July 9, 2026: Denis Dunnebacke was found unresponsive.
August 20, 2026: Daniel Lusk was stabbed to death.
September 1, 2026: Louis Woodruff died after being found with injuries.
Legal Context
This investigation follows the implementation of the 2026 Lansing River Trail safety initiative, which sought to increase security in the area. The current inquiry marks an escalation in local efforts to manage public safety concerns along the trail.
Residents should remain aware of their surroundings while using the Lansing River Trail as the police investigation continues. Increased police patrols remain in effect, and the public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to local authorities.
The takeaway
The ongoing police investigation highlights the importance of maintaining public vigilance in shared outdoor spaces. Residents are advised to monitor official reports from the Lansing Police Department for updates regarding the safety of the trail.
Further reading
For additional updates on local safety reports, visit the Accidents section.
