Law enforcement descended upon the Massapequa Park residence of Rex Heuermann, a 59-year-old architect, following his arrest in connection with the Gilgo Beach murders. Heuermann, described by neighbors as an unassuming family man, is accused of killing at least three women and disposing of their bodies in a secluded coastal area east of Manhattan. The investigation, which spanned over a decade, began with the search for missing escort Shannan Gilbert and led to the discovery of multiple sets of remains.
Over the weekend, police meticulously combed through Heuermann's home, a property noticeably different from the well-maintained houses in the surrounding suburban neighborhood. Investigators removed numerous boxes of evidence, including cabinets and toolboxes, from the basement. Suffolk County Police Commissioner Rodney Harrison revealed that Heuermann possessed a substantial collection of firearms, stored in a vault within the house. Authorities are working to determine the legality of the weapons. The District Attorney noted the connection between the burlap material used to wrap the victims and the type commonly used in duck blinds, a hobby Heuermann reportedly enjoyed.
The search extended beyond Heuermann's residence to a nearby storage unit in Amityville, New York. A representative for the storage facility declined to comment on the ongoing investigation. Neighbors reported seeing Heuermann regularly commuting to and from Manhattan, where he worked. Heuermann had resided in the Massapequa Park home since purchasing it from his mother in the 1990s.
Heuermann is charged with six counts of murder, two each for the deaths of Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Costello. He also remains a prime suspect in the death of Maureen Brainard-Barnes. The discovery of the “Gilgo Four” and subsequent remains along Ocean Parkway has captivated and horrified the public for over a decade. The investigation continues to unfold, shedding light on a complex and tragic case.
