Prosecutors say DNA links Rex Heuermann to more victims in the Gilgo Beach murders investigation
The case against Rex Heuermann, the suspected killer in the Gilgo Beach serial killings, may expand as prosecutors explore additional connections to other unsolved murders along Long Island’s coastline. Heuermann, 59, who faces charges for the murders of three women, is now under investigation for other bodies found in the area, according to officials.
Heuermann, charged with the killings of Melissa Barthelemy (24), Megan Waterman (22), and Amber Lynn Costello (27), appeared briefly in court for a pretrial hearing. Authorities have also named him as a prime suspect in the disappearance of Maureen Brainard-Barnes, 25, who went missing in 2007. These women have been collectively referred to as the “Gilgo Four,” in reference to the area where their bodies were discovered.
Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney confirmed that investigators are broadening their inquiry to include other bodies found along the same stretch of Long Island’s southern shore. He declined to offer a timeline for when additional charges might be brought against Heuermann, but emphasized that work is ongoing to gather evidence related to the fourth victim and other potential cases.
Prosecutors disclosed that DNA from Heuermann, taken after his arrest, matched biological material found on Waterman’s body. Previously, investigators linked him to the case using a DNA sample from pizza crust discarded by Heuermann, which led to a match with DNA on Waterman’s body. Now, with more concrete evidence, authorities are strengthening their case against Heuermann.
The investigation continues to unfold, as authorities search for further links to other potential victims. The case has drawn significant public attention due to the gruesome nature of the killings and the long period of uncertainty surrounding the identity of the killer.
While prosecutors continue to build their case, they are also exploring whether additional victims could be connected to Heuermann, potentially increasing the scope of the charges against him. Heuermann remains in custody as the legal process moves forward.
The expansion of the investigation brings a renewed focus on the mystery surrounding the Gilgo Beach murders, with prosecutors and investigators hopeful that new developments will bring justice for the victims and their families.