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A suspect has finally been charged in the long-standing cold case of the Gilgo Beach serial killings, bringing relief to the community and closure to the families of the victims. To understand the significance of Heuermann’s arrest, it is essential to review the timeline of the Gilgo Beach murders and the investigation.
On Friday, a major breakthrough was announced as authorities charged 59-year-old New York architect Rex Heuermann with murder in connection to the killings of three of the victims, known as the “Gilgo Four.” (Photo: NBC New York)
Gilgo Beach Serial Killings
The Gilgo Beach serial killings have confused authorities and instilled fear in residents of Long Island’s South Shore for over a decade.
According to CNN, the Gilgo Beach serial killings case began in 2010 when a woman’s disappearance led investigators to discover multiple sets of human remains, including those of the missing woman, and prompted a search for a potential serial killer.
On Friday, a major breakthrough was announced as authorities charged 59-year-old New York architect Rex Heuermann with murder in connection to the killings of three of the victims, known as the “Gilgo Four.”
Heuermann was taken into custody the previous night and has been indicted on multiple counts of first-degree and second-degree murder in relation to the deaths of Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Costello. Heuermann, however, denies being the killer, according to his attorney.
Additionally, Heuermann is considered the prime suspect in the 2007 disappearance and death of another woman, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, although he has not been charged in that case yet. Prosecutors state that the investigation into Brainard-Barnes’ case is expected to be resolved soon.
READ ALSO: Murder Suspect Of Gilgo Beach Serial Killings After DNA Found On Pizza Box
Timeline of the Gilgo Beach Serial Killings Investigation
To understand the significance of Heuermann’s arrest, it is essential to review the timeline of the Gilgo Beach murders and the investigation that unfolded.
2010: First Set of Remains Discovered
The first set of remains connected to the case was discovered in 2010 when authorities were searching for a missing woman named Shannan Gilbert. In their search, they found the remains of Melissa Barthelemy, followed by three more victims – Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Amber Costello, and Megan Waterman – in close proximity on Gilgo Beach.
The four women were identified as escorts who had advertised on Craigslist and were last seen between 2007 and 2010. After Barthelemy’s disappearance, her family received taunting calls from the suspect, which later played a crucial role in the investigation.
2011: More Remains Discovered Including Mother and Toddler
In 2011, additional remains were found, including those of a toddler and her mother. The investigation expanded with the discovery of more victims in different locations.
A man using Barthelemy’s cell phone made disturbing and taunting calls to her family, providing details of her murder. Although investigators later found Shannan Gilbert’s body in a different area, they believe her death may be unrelated to the Gilgo Beach slayings.
2020: Police Released Photos of Evidence in Gilgo Beach serial killings
In 2020, the police released photos of a black leather belt, a potentially key piece of evidence, and identified one of the victims, previously known as “Jane Doe #6,” as Valerie Mack.
The use of advanced forensic DNA technology and genetic genealogy helped identify her remains and connect her with her biological family.
2022: Task Force Formed to Investigate Gilgo Beach serial killings
The Gilgo Beach serial killings case gained new momentum in 2022 when a task force was formed, consisting of various law enforcement agencies, to investigate the Gilgo Beach killings. The focus shifted to Rex Heuermann after a state investigator identified him as a possible suspect.
Surveillance, DNA collection from discarded items, and analysis of cell phone and credit card records further solidified the case against him. Heuermann’s internet search history indicated an obsession with the investigation and the victims.
2023: Suspect Arrested
The breakthrough of the Gilgo Beach serial killings came in early 2023 when investigators obtained a complete DNA sample of Heuermann from a pizza box he had thrown away.
The DNA evidence matched samples found on one of the victims’ remains, confirming his involvement. In addition, hair believed to be from Heuermann’s wife was discovered on or near three of the victims, further implicating him in the crimes.
Finally, on July 13, 2023, Heuermann was arrested in New York City, marking the first arrest in the Gilgo Beach serial killings.
