Waller Creek Deaths Leaves Neighbors Uneasy

AUSTIN, Texas - In the past month, two people have turned up dead in Waller Creek. The most recent body found Sunday afternoon.

Waller Creek appears to be a calm strip of water than runs through downtown Austin where Robert Smith took his daily stroll.

"This is the route I take from work every day going to where I currently live," he said.

It was also the best way home for Frank Hand.

"I live just off of Trinity, which is on the other side of the convention center," said Hand.

Recently, the area has been teeming with police activity. In the past month, two bodies were found in the creek less than a mile away from each other.

"That blows my mind, just the thought of that. I haven't heard of a dead body or possible foul play in this case in a long time," said Hand.

Back in April, 24-year-old Tia Shane Brooks was found dead in the creek near 4th and I-35. Then Sunday, 43-year-old Daniel Michael was found face down near 11th and Red River.

"It's pretty concerning being that this is a tourist type of area,” said Smith. “A lot of people come through here to enjoy themselves. Quite naturally, that would be concerning."

Austin police have not released much information about either death, but do not believe the public was in any danger. They said the most recent death was not suspicious.

Still, some who frequent this part of the creek feel the need to stay alert.

"It would make me want to watch my time when I spend outside, you know, to not be here when it gets dark,” said Hand. “It's a shame you got to do that."

Others, like Smith, plan to take it in stride.

"It's concerning and sad but you know, I feel pretty safe and confident. I feel protected. I have God in my life so things work out," said Smith.

While Austin police do not believe Michael's death was suspicious, ultimately the medical examiner will determine the cause in both cases.