Five men found dead near Michigan river trail as police investigate possible serial killer targeting homeless victims

Michigan State University has tightened security after five homeless men were found dead along the Lansing River Trail over the past year, with police formally announcing they are investigating whether the killings are connected. One victim, Daniel Lusk, 22, was found stabbed under a bridge; the other four suffered head injuries or suspected blunt force trauma. Edward Joseph Smith, 23, was arrested on 3 September in connection with Lusk's murder alone, and has not been accused of involvement in the remaining four deaths. Authorities have made no further arrests.

Former FBI profiler Mary Ellen O'Toole says the killer almost certainly left forensic evidence behind, telling investigators: 'He's probably leaving behind some very valuable evidence.'

Michigan State criminology professor Karen Holt warned students and residents to avoid the trail, saying: 'I don't necessarily know that we can call it a safe community.'

Holt noted killers often target homeless victims because they are seen as individuals 'who lack credibility', making offenders believe they are less likely to be caught.