Rex Heuermann and the Long Island killings: What we know about Gilgo Beach murders.
Breakthrough in the Gilgo Beach Murders Case: Suspect Arrested
After more than a decade of investigation, the Gilgo Beach murders could finally be on the path to resolution as police made a significant breakthrough last week. Rex Heuermann, infamously known as the Long Island serial killer, appeared in court just a day after his arrest. During the trial, he pleaded not guilty to the initial counts of three murders laid against him, but prosecutors are determined to bring more charges against the suspect.
Who is Rex Heuermann?
Despite allegedly committing several murders, Heuermann managed to lead a double life. By day, he worked as an architect and architectural consultant in Manhattan, residing in Massapequa, New York, with his wife and two children. However, his imposing 6’4″ heavyset stature often intimidated people, making his neighbors uneasy. Nevertheless, to strangers, he appeared quite ordinary.
How many people died in the ‘Gilgo Beach murders’?
A total of 11 deaths have been linked to the Gilgo Beach murders. However, Heuermann has only been charged with three of these murders, with the possibility of a fourth indictment looming.
These victims are collectively known as the ”Gilgo Four.”
Who are the Gilgo Four?
Police have connected Heuermann to the deaths of four women: Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Lynn Costello. All four women had worked as prostitutes before their tragic demise. Notably, Costello’s death has yet to result in a charge against Heuermann.
Where were the bodies found?
Between 2010 and 2011, a series of bodies were discovered along a desolate highway near Gilgo Beach. The remains of Brainard-Barnes, Barthelemy, Waterman, and Costello were found in close proximity to each other, prompting local police to investigate.
How did authorities find him?
The investigation into Heuermann gained momentum in February 2022 when a special task force was formed specifically to apprehend the Long Island serial killer. Prior to this, the case had been marred by dysfunction and halted due to a police corruption scandal.
After years of dormancy, the case was reignited over a year ago. The task force made significant progress by examining the cellphone records of the four victims and triangulating the location from which Heuermann had contacted them. Subsequently, law enforcement collected discarded items, including 11 bottles and crusts in a pizza box, from his trash can to compare his DNA with that found at the crime scenes.
Finally, last Thursday night, authorities arrested Heuermann at his Massapequa residence, leading to his appearance in court. The criminal investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement strives to establish connections between Heuermann and additional murders.
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