Everything we know about 19 bodies pulled from one lake as fears of potential US serial killer grow

Residents in Austin, Texas are expressing concern following the discovery of multiple bodies in Lady Bird Lake over the past few years. While speculation continues about a potential serial killer, law enforcement officials say there is no evidence to support this theory.

19 Bodies in 3 Years: What’s Really Happening?

Since 2022, at least 19 bodies have been recovered from Lady Bird Lake, a popular reservoir along the Colorado River that cuts through downtown Austin. The lake, located near the city’s entertainment hub Rainey Street, has become the focal point of a wave of speculation fueled by social media and local chatter.

The frequency and location of the discoveries have sparked the nickname “Rainey Street Ripper,” suggesting a possible link between the deaths. However, police have continued to deny any evidence of foul play in the majority of the cases.

What Authorities Say

In the most recent case, reported on June 3, a teenager kayaking with family failed to resurface after entering the water. The teen’s body was later found by a paddleboarder, according to the Austin Police Department (APD).

“At this time, there is no evidence to suggest these cases are related or the result of a serial offender,” said Corporal Jose Mendez of APD.

In a prior statement posted to social media, APD addressed ongoing rumors:

“Although these cases are still under investigation… there is no evidence in any of these cases to support allegations of foul play.”

The department emphasized that alcohol and nighttime access to the lake may play a key role, citing the area’s limited visibility and numerous unprotected entry points. Most incidents occurred after park hours, which officially end at 10 p.m.

APD continues to work closely with the Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office, which has found no trauma or signs of assault in the majority of autopsies performed.

Victim Demographics

Fox 7 Austin reports that roughly 60% of the deceased individuals were between the ages of 39 and 49. Two victims were under the age of 20. While causes of death remain undetermined in some cases, only one has been officially ruled a homicide.

The Survivor: Jeff Jones’ Story

One case that continues to fuel public speculation involves Jeff Jones, a 39-year-old visitor from Boston. In June 2023, while celebrating a bachelor party in Austin, Jones was found injured beneath a bridge near downtown.

A toxicology report later confirmed the presence of benzodiazepines—substances sometimes associated with drug-facilitated crimes. Jones believes he may have narrowly escaped an attempted attack. He suffered serious injuries, fell into a coma, and required multiple surgeries but has since recovered.

“I just got lucky,” Jones said in a later interview. “Not many people can say they potentially survived something like that.”

No Confirmed Serial Activity

Despite theories circulating online, authorities have found no forensic or behavioral evidence to support the presence of a serial offender. The majority of incidents appear to be isolated, with contributing factors such as alcohol consumption and environmental hazards likely playing significant roles.

Community Safety and Next Steps

While public concern remains high, law enforcement encourages residents and visitors to follow posted safety guidelines around Lady Bird Lake, especially during evening hours. Park closures are in place for a reason, and alcohol-related incidents near bodies of water pose well-known risks.

As investigations continue, local authorities remain committed to transparency and thorough case-by-case analysis.