Detective Alleges 'Smiley Face Killers' Network

A former NYPD detective, Kevin Gannon, is investigating a potential serial killer network known as 'The Smiley Face Killers,' which he believes is active across the United States. Gannon alleges that graffiti, including a distinctive smiley face, found near numerous bodies discovered in Houston's bayous and Austin's waterways, points to a coordinated group. He suggests these killers target victims and dump their bodies in water to obscure the cause of death, potentially moving between cities like Austin and Houston.

Since 2017, nearly 200 bodies have been recovered from Houston's bayous, with 17 classified as murders and 75 as 'unexplained.' Similarly, 19 bodies were found in Austin's Lady Bird Lake between 2022 and 2025. Despite Gannon's assertions and his plan to investigate further in Houston, authorities in both cities, including Houston Mayor John Whitmire, have consistently denied the existence of a serial killer. They attribute the deaths to factors like intoxication, homelessness, and accidental drownings.

Academics, such as Dr. Kim Rossmo from Texas State University, have publicly dismissed the 'Smiley Face Killer' theory as "sensational nonsense," arguing that serial killers are typically loners and that the statistics in these cities reflect drowning incidents rather than a coordinated killing spree. Despite this opposition, Gannon remains convinced, believing law enforcement might be overlooking crucial connections to maintain public calm and protect tourism.