On April 15, 2023, the body of a 30-year-old Black male, John Christopher Hays-Clark, was discovered in Lady Bird Lake near Longhorn Dam in Austin, Texas. Authorities responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a possible deceased individual in the water around 1:20 p.m. First responders conducted a water rescue, but Hays-Clark was pronounced dead at the scene.
His identity was confirmed shortly thereafter, and the Austin Police Department stated that the investigation was in its early stages.
John Christopher Hays-Clark, also known as Chris Clark, was born on November 23, 1992. He was a lifelong Austin resident and a graduate of Austin Can Academy. Throughout his life, he was known for his vibrant personality, love of sports, and dedication to his family. He had one son, LaShawn Aparicio-Clark, with whom he shared a close bond. Hays-Clark worked various jobs, including positions with Austin Parks & Recreation and America's Auto Auction, and was most recently employed at KFC. His sudden death shocked family and friends, who remembered him as a humorous and kind-hearted individual.
The discovery of Hays-Clark's body marked the fourth such incident in Lady Bird Lake within a two-month span, prompting public concern and speculation about a possible serial killer. Despite these fears, Austin police emphasized that there was no evidence of foul play in Hays-Clark's death. Investigators noted that similar cases involved a combination of alcohol and the lake's easy accessibility, particularly near the Rainey Street entertainment district. However, Hays-Clark's body was found on the east side of the lake, away from Rainey Street.
No arrests have been made in connection with the death of 30-year-old Black male John Christopher Hays-Clark, and no suspects have been publicly identified. The Austin Police Department continues to investigate, and the final determination regarding the cause of death awaits the medical examiner's review. In response to the string of deaths, city officials have implemented safety measures such as increased lighting, fencing, and patrols near the lake. Nonetheless, the community remains unsettled, and loved ones of the victims continue to seek answers.
