Texas authorities are urgently seeking public assistance to identify a suspected serial killer linked by DNA to two separate murders, raising concerns about public safety and the potential for more victims.
At a Glance
- DNA evidence connects the murders of two women in Austin, Texas
- Suspect described as a short Hispanic male, seen in released video footage
- Both victims appear to have been strangled, with similar methods used
- Police suspect there could be more victims, urging public cooperation
- Up to $1,000 reward offered for information leading to an arrest
DNA Links Two Murders, Authorities Seek Suspect
The Austin Police Department (APD) has issued a public appeal for help in identifying a suspected serial killer. DNA evidence has linked the murders of two women: Alyssa Ann Rivera, found dead in June, and Alba Jenisse Aviles, discovered in April 2018.
On July 3, the APD released videos and images of the suspect, showing a male walking alongside a woman. The suspect is described as a short Hispanic man, last seen with Rivera before her death. This description provides a crucial lead for the public to assist in the investigation.
Similarities in Cases Raise Alarm
Both victims appear to have been strangled, with investigators noting similar methods used at both crime scenes. Rivera, 34, was found dead in an abandoned house on June 21, while Aviles, 28, was discovered in a silver Ford sedan in spring 2018. The Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office initially investigated Aviles’ case.
“There is no known link between either victim, both scenes have a similar M.O.” – Sergeant of the homicide department Nathan Sexton
Interestingly, Aviles had been at Club Caribe before her death, a location near the site of Rivera’s murder. This geographical connection adds another layer to the investigation, potentially providing clues about the suspect’s movements.
Concerns of More Victims
Law enforcement officials have expressed concern that there may be more victims linked to this suspect. However, only two cases have been definitively connected through DNA evidence so far. The suspect is not believed to have a criminal record, as there was no match in the Combined DNA Index System.
“There could be more, these are the only two that we’ve actually linked through DNA.” – Sergeant of the homicide department Nathan Sexton
The APD is thoroughly investigating each death to determine if it is suspicious, followed by medical examiner’s and toxicology exams. While the deaths of Rivera and Aviles are not linked to recent drownings at Lady Bird Lake, one death near the lake in December 2022 was ruled a homicide, though unrelated to this case.
Public Assistance Crucial
With the suspect still at large, public cooperation is vital. The APD encourages anyone with information to contact them at 512-974-TIPS or anonymously through Capital Area Crime Stoppers. Tips leading to an arrest could result in a reward of up to $1,000, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in solving these crimes.
As of August 6, at least 39 homicides have been reported in Austin in 2024, underscoring the urgency of this investigation. The APD remains committed to bringing justice to the victims and their families, and ensuring the safety of the Austin community.
Sources:
- Austin Police Hunt for Suspected Serial Killer
- Authorities seek public’s help identifying suspected Texas serial killer after DNA links person to 2 murders
- Austin police searching for serial killer likely responsible for 2 murders
- FBI Serial Murder Statistics
- DNA links one suspect to two women murdered in Texas
