Residents of Houston are alarmed after 16 bodies were discovered in the same bayou, sparking fears of a serial killer. The latest body, found on October 8 near Marie Street, was pulled from White Oak Bayou by a dive team. Authorities say the cause of death is still unknown, with no clear signs of foul play.

“People deserve the truth, not fear,” said Mayor John Whitmire. “There’s no evidence of a serial killer in Houston.” He called online speculation “wild and frustrating,” urging residents to trust verified information instead of social media rumors.

Officials explained that Houston’s 2,500 miles of waterways often lead to accidental deaths, especially among homeless individuals living nearby. Police Captain Salam Zia confirmed, “There is no evidence that any of these cases are connected.”

Investigators continue to analyze each case, including that of 20-year-old student Jade McKissic, found in September. As anxiety spreads, officials remind the public: not every tragedy hides a killer — sometimes it’s simply heartbreak by the water.