Community leaders in Houston’s Third Ward on Tuesday urged residents to stay calm as they awaited more information about the 15 bodies found in area bayous this year—including six in just two weeks—and pledged that law enforcement would release further investigative details soon.
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At a news conference held near Brays Bayou, Houston City Council members and neighborhood representatives promised that updates would arrive within days regarding the identities and causes of death of those bodies, which have stoked fears and speculation across the city.
On Tuesday, Houston City Council Member Carolyn Evans-Shabazz and former Council Member Letitia Plummer spoke to residents at Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, aiming to ease concerns following the unsettling revelation of 15 bodies found in the bayous of Houston this year. They successfully recovered six bodies between September 15 and September 26.
“The speculation circulating online has heightened anxiety; we seek clarity,” Plummer stated, advocating for calm while emphasizing that people need openness from law enforcement. She mentioned that the city and the Houston Police Department (HPD) intend to identify the bodies and inform families before disclosing additional information. “In the upcoming week, we will achieve our objectives and fulfill our commitments,” she stated.
Tomaro Bell, the chairman of McGregor Super Neighborhood 83, reiterated the demand for transparency. “What sense of assurance do we have? We would love to hear additional details. We seek to understand,” he stated.
In light of the situation, HPD has chosen not to provide numerous details while awaiting identification and notification of the family. A representative directed reporters to earlier briefings where officials emphasized the importance of verifying information before making it public.
Evans-Shabazz, representing District D, stated that the information from HPD regarding one victim—University of Houston student Jade McKissic—suggested there was no foul play. However, investigators are still examining the case.
At recent press events, officials such as Mayor John Whitmire and Police Chief Noe Diaz have consistently refuted any claims of evidence connecting the cases or suggesting the presence of a serial killer. Experts in criminology concur, observing that the victims seem to lack a uniform profile or method of demise.
Leaders have urged residents to prioritize safety measures. Plummer emphasized previous cautions: steer clear of swimming or fishing in bayous, travel with companions, keep a phone and self-defense tools handy, and refrain from walking near waterways after dark.
The council members announced plans to involve students, faculty, and community groups in the upcoming days to alleviate concerns and provide answers to inquiries.
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