JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has publicly dismissed any speculation that a serial killer is targeting women in the First Coast area.

Within the past several days, the JSO has discovered the bodies of three women.

During the weekend, one woman was reportedly shot behind a business in Mandarin, while another was discovered beneath a bridge on Blanding Boulevard. A third woman’s body was found on Monday afternoon inside a rooming house on Jacksonville’s Westside.

Addressing these incidents, the JSO took to Facebook to clarify that they are “aware of rumors” suggesting the involvement of a serial killer, but they insist that such claims are unfounded.

The complete statement from the JSO is available for viewing below:

“JSO is aware of rumors circulating about a serial killer on the loose in Jacksonville. We can confirm these claims are FALSE. Our detectives are investigating recent homicide cases that involve female victims, following the facts and evidence in each case. We will share updates as soon as we are able to, but we want to reassure the community there is no danger to the public related these incidents.”

Any information regarding the death of these women should be sent to JSO by calling 904-630-0500 or remaining anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-tips.