The discovery of more than 30 bodies in bayous around Houston this year has sparked widespread fear and speculation, with many residents questioning whether a serial killer could be operating in the city. The concerns intensified after authorities recovered three bodies from Houston-area waterways in just the past week, bringing the total number of bodies found in the bayous in 2025 to at least 34, according to reports by The Houston Chronicle.
The grim discoveries have fueled intense discussion on social media, prompting Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare to publicly address the growing rumors. Speaking to local station KPRC, Teare firmly dismissed the notion of a serial killer. “There is nothing — nothing — and I want to be crystal clear, to indicate that there is someone operating here as a serial killer,” he said. “There are many reasons for these deaths. None of them are a serial killer.”
Despite official reassurances, skepticism remains among some residents and visitors. Tourist Juan Sandoval told ABC13, “The math isn’t mathing. I think there’s a serial killer.” His friend, Erick Cortez, echoed the concern, saying it was “ridiculous” that so many people were dying in the bayous without a clear explanation.
Teare acknowledged that the circumstances surrounding Houston’s waterways can be dangerous, particularly for vulnerable individuals. “It’s kind of a little-known fact, but when you get into the bayous, it is very difficult to get out,” he explained. He added that intoxication or drug use can significantly increase the risk of drowning. While conceding that some bodies are occasionally placed in bayous as the result of criminal acts, Teare emphasized that such cases are not common or part of a pattern.
One case that drew particular attention was the death of 20-year-old University of Houston student Jade McKissic. She disappeared on September 11 and was found four days later in Brays Bayou. Authorities reported no signs of trauma, and her cause of death was ruled “undetermined,” a category that reportedly accounts for about 40% of such cases in the area. On the same day McKissic was found, another body was recovered from nearby waters, further intensifying public concern.
This is not the first time Houston officials have had to push back against serial killer rumors. In September, authorities addressed similar claims after experts suggested the clustering of deaths was suspicious. Retired NYPD sergeant and criminal justice professor Joseph Giacalone told Fox News that the cases warranted close scrutiny, calling the timing “unlikely” to be mere coincidence.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire has repeatedly denied the existence of a serial killer, criticizing what he described as misinformation and “wild speculation.” While calling the number of deaths “alarming,” he urged patience as investigations continue. Whitmire also pointed to contributing factors such as homelessness, alcohol abuse, and mental health issues, noting that drowning incidents in Houston’s 2,500 miles of waterways are not new. Last year alone, 24 bodies were recovered from the city’s bayous.
