Lady Bird Lake deaths: Austin police dismiss serial killer theories despite 10 bodies found in 18 months
AUSTIN, TEXAS: In the heart of downtown Austin, Texas, Lady Bird Lake, with its serene appearance, conceals a haunting narrative.
Unfortunately, over the past 18 months, the tranquil reservoir has become the final resting place for 10 individuals, the latest discovery occurring just this Monday, February 5. Even as questions linger, Austin Police dismiss the notion of a serial killer, maintaining that each case is independent.
Lady Bird lake tragedies amidst growing concerns
While the identity and cause of death of the most recent victim remain undisclosed, Austin Police are emphatically denying any links between the tragic incidents.
All 10 victims, exclusively men, have been identified since the string of incidents began in July 2022. Even as questions linger, Austin Police dismiss the notion of a serial killer, maintaining that each case is independent.
Victims of Lady Bird lake tragedies
Mogga Dogale, whose body was found on June 27, 2023, shared a proximity to the latest discovery site, yet Austin Police assert his death is not under investigation as a homicide, according to KXAN.
The sole homicide in the series involved Josue Moreno, who was shot in the head before his truck plunged into the lake on December 19, 2022. An 18-year-old, Joel Santiago Gonzalez-Paron, has been charged in connection with Moreno's death.
Various circumstances surround the remaining seven deaths, with two ruled accidental drownings in February and April 2023, three closed cases in July and December 2022 with no suspected foul play, an undetermined cause of death in March 2023, and no suspected foul play in April 2023, as per Austin Police and medical examiner reports.
A recurring theme, however, is the correlation between alcohol consumption and easy access to Lady Bird lake.
The city has allocated additional funds for safety improvements, yet concerns persist among residents who suspect a hidden connection between the deaths. While Abdul Tabbakha, a nearby resident, notes an uptick in police presence, the recent discovery of another body on Monday “definitely does concern me that they are not able to find out who is doing this.”
