Following the discovery of a 19th body in Lady Bird Lake, a grieving family is calling for a full investigation into the possibility that a serial killer may be targeting young men in Austin, Texas.
On June 3, the body of 17-year-old Irewamiri Shote was found by a paddleboarder in the waters of Lady Bird Lake — a scenic reservoir that cuts through downtown Austin and is popular for its waterfront parks, restaurants, and nightlife.
Shote’s Death Fuels “Rainey Street Ripper” Theories
Shote’s tragic death has reignited speculation of a potential serial killer, with many pointing to the area near Rainey Street, known for its vibrant bar and club scene. Online discussions have even dubbed the alleged killer the “Rainey Street Ripper.”
However, Austin Police Department (APD) officials maintain that there is no evidence to support claims of a serial killer. According to the department, detectives have investigated all 19 deaths connected to the lake and determined that only one case — the 2024 homicide of 45-year-old Josue Moreno — was considered suspicious. A suspect was arrested in that case.
The other 18 deaths, including Shote’s, were ruled non-suspicious after full autopsies and toxicology reports, which reportedly found no signs of foul play.
Families Remain Skeptical: “We Deserve Answers”
Despite police statements, the families of several victims remain unconvinced — and they’re now demanding accountability and further investigation.
Christopher Hays-Clark, a 30-year-old father, was found dead near Longhorn Dam on April 15, 2023. His ex-partner, Reegan Aparicio, says the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear and that she wants “closure” — especially for their son, who was just 12 at the time.
Aparicio described the APD’s decision to label Shote’s death a “tragic accident” as a “slap in the face” to the families still searching for the truth.
“There are too many similarities and not enough answers,” she said. “It’s time the city took this seriously and reexamined what’s happening in and around that lake.”
Lady Bird Lake, once known for its beauty and recreation, is now gaining a troubling reputation — and many families say they won’t rest until they know for sure whether tragedy or something more sinister is behind the deaths of so many young men.
