Home / Crime and Justice / Dozens of drownings spark serial killer fears in Austin
Dozens of drownings spark serial killer fears in Austin
8 Feb
Summary
- Brother's drowning death ruled accidental, but doubts linger.
- Suspicions arise of a serial killer targeting intoxicated victims.
- City safety initiatives have failed to prevent recent tragedies.
Mitchell Gutierrez visits Lady Bird Lake each year to honor his brother, Martin, who disappeared seven days before his body was found floating in November 2018. Martin's death was officially ruled an accidental drowning, with his autopsy revealing a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal driving limit. Detectives stated there was no foul play involved.
However, Gutierrez harbors doubts about the official conclusion, a sentiment shared by many regarding dozens of other drownings in the waterway over the past decade. Most of these incidents were also classified as accidental. Despite the city's implementation of safety initiatives designed to prevent further tragedies, the recurring discovery of bodies has fueled suspicions of a potential serial killer targeting intoxicated individuals who venture too close to the water's edge.
