Introduction to the Issue
Houston has seen a number of bodies recovered from the bayou this year, leaving the community with many questions and fears. New records from the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences provide more insight into these incidents, helping to clarify the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The Data
According to data reviewed by KPRC 2, there have been 22 deaths this year where a bayou was listed as the place of death, excluding cases involving vehicles. Of these, only six have finalized causes of death, while the majority remain pending or undetermined. The records show that four victims drowned, with toxicology results indicating the presence of drugs or alcohol in at least two of these cases. One victim died from sudden cardiac death related to hypertensive heart disease and hypothermia, and another case was ruled a suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Demographics of the Victims
The demographics of the victims are varied. Nineteen of the deaths were men, and three were women. The ages of the victims ranged widely, with the majority being between 29 and 55 years old. Twenty-one of the bodies were found in Houston’s waterways, and one was found in Channelview.
Community Concerns and Responses
These findings come as Houston leaders face pressure to address community fears. Despite speculation about a serial killer, Council Members Letitia Plummer and Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz have stated that there is no evidence to support this claim. At a recent press conference, they emphasized the need for accurate information and respect for the families of the victims. Dr. Evans-Shabazz also addressed the case of a University of Houston student, stating that investigators found evidence of the student walking into the bayou and that no foul play was involved.
Safety Precautions
Officials are urging residents to be cautious around the city’s 2,500 miles of waterways. They warn that even when the water appears calm, strong undercurrents, debris, and hidden hazards can make the bayous dangerous.
List of Victims
Here is a list of the names, dates, and causes of death that have been collected so far:
- Douglas Swearingen — 2025-01-11 — Age 44 — Drowning (Acute methamphetamine toxicity)
- Carl Newton — 2025-02-14 — Age 24 — Sudden cardiac death (hypertensive cardiovascular disease, KCNQ1 variant, with hypothermia)
- Rodolfo Salas Sosa — 2025-03-22 — Age 56 — Drowning with blunt force trauma
- Anthony Azua — 2025-03-30 — Age 33 — Pending
- Juan Garcia Loredo — 2025-03-31 — Age 69 — Pending
- Kenneth Jones — 2025-05-07 — Age 34 — Undetermined
- George Grays — 2025-05-09 — Age 54 — Pending
- Culcois Racius — 2025-05-09 — Age 39 — Pending
- Anthony Curry — 2025-05-17 — Age 35 — Drowning with acute toxic effects of PCP and ethanol
- Shannon Davis — 2025-05-30 — Age 14 — Drowning
- Ernest Armstrong — 2025-06-09 — Age 62 — Undetermined
- Brent Brown — 2025-06-12 — Age 28 — Undetermined
- Raymond Hatten — 2025-07-07 — Age 30 — Pending
- Latrecia Amos — 2025-08-21 — Age 57 — Pending
- Jamal Alexander — 2025-08-27 — Age 31 — Pending
- Jade McKissic — 2025-09-15 — Age 20 — Pending
- Rodney Chatman — 2025-09-15 — Age 43 — Pending
- Name not captured — 2025-09-16 — Age 55 — Pending
- Name not captured — 2025-09-18 — Age 41 — Pending
- Michael Rice — 2025-09-20 — Age 47 — Pending
- Name not captured — 2025-09-25 — Pending
Conclusion
The deaths in Houston’s bayous this year have raised significant concerns and speculation within the community. While the causes of most of these deaths remain pending or undetermined, the available data does not support the presence of a serial killer. Instead, it highlights the importance of safety around waterways and the need for accurate, respectful communication with the families of the victims. As the investigations continue, it is crucial for the community to remain informed and vigilant, awaiting the finalized reports and respecting the privacy and grief of those affected.
