A New York architect, Rex Heuermann, has been charged with two additional murders, bringing the total number of victims he is accused of killing to eight. The victims, primarily petite women, were allegedly targeted based on their physical characteristics. Investigators believe Heuermann may have more victims in other states where he had connections.
Gilgo Beach, New York – Rex Heuermann, a renowned New York City architect, has found himself embroiled in the chilling case of the Gilgo Beach murders. Once a respected family man residing in the tranquil Massapequa Park suburb, Heuermann's double life has unfolded with shocking allegations of serial murders.
Gilgo Beach Suspect Linked to More Murders, Victims Identified as Petite and Vulnerable
Since his arrest in July 2023, Heuermann has been charged with the murders of Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, Amber Costello, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Jessica Taylor, Sandra Costilla, and Valerie Mack. Investigators have tirelessly sifted through evidence seized during an extensive 12-day search of his residence.
Intriguingly, Heuermann's alleged targets shared a common characteristic: petite stature, with most standing below five feet tall. Forensic investigators stumbled upon a chilling note on one of Heuermann's computers, where he allegedly penned the sinister statement, "small is good."
Gilgo Beach Suspect Linked to More Murders, Victims Identified as Petite and Vulnerable
The HK2002-04 computer file, initially deleted but skillfully recovered by authorities, contained a disturbing list of "problems," "supplies," targets, and dump sites. Heuermann's fascination with serial killers extended beyond his alleged crimes. Evidence suggests he was an avid reader of John Douglas's seminal work, "Mindhunter," and marked specific page numbers in his personal copy of "The Cases That Haunt Us," a compendium of infamous murder cases.
Heuermann's meticulous planning is further evident in his detailed listing of traffic cameras along the routes between his residence and the known dump sites. This information aided investigators in their search efforts, prompting a second thorough examination of his property months after the initial investigation.
Gilgo Beach Suspect Linked to More Murders, Victims Identified as Petite and Vulnerable
Four of Heuermann's alleged victims, Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, Amber Costello, and Maureen Brainard-Barnes, became known as the Gilgo Four. Their remains were discovered close to one another east of Gilgo Beach, a desolate stretch of land near Long Island's Great South Bay.
In a separate investigation, the remains of 11 individuals were found along Ocean Parkway, east of Gilgo Beach, in 2010 and 2011. One of these victims, Shannan Gilbert, made a desperate 911 call from neighboring Oak Beach, pleading for help before her untimely demise.
Gilgo Beach Suspect Linked to More Murders, Victims Identified as Petite and Vulnerable
While most of the Ocean Parkway deaths remain under investigation, Gilbert's case has been classified as an accidental drowning. However, Dr. Michael Baden, a renowned forensic pathologist, disputes this finding, citing evidence of strangulation discovered during an independent autopsy.
As the case against Heuermann progresses, authorities have received reports of his old Chevy Avalanche from witnesses in two separate murders. His extensive phone records and internet searches are also under scrutiny, along with his DNA.
Gilgo Beach Suspect Linked to More Murders, Victims Identified as Petite and Vulnerable
Heuermann's family has been deeply affected by the allegations against him. His wife, Asa Ellerup, filed for divorce shortly after his arrest. She revealed that she had been battling cancer and has been struggling to cope with the drastic change in circumstances.
Ellerup's attorney, Bob Macedonio, commented on the ongoing turmoil: "Every day after July 13, 2023, has been a new normal for her. She's in remission now. Her and her children are adjusting to life the best they can." Despite her initial skepticism about her husband's guilt, Ellerup continues to visit him in jail, reserving judgment until the conclusion of his trial.
Gilgo Beach Suspect Linked to More Murders, Victims Identified as Petite and Vulnerable
