Authorities have confirmed that Rex Heuermann has been arrested in connection with the long-unsolved Gilgo Beach murders. The suspect’s identity was disclosed by four senior law enforcement officials familiar with the case.
Law enforcement agencies, including Suffolk County police, sheriffs, and New York State Police, converged outside Heuermann’s residence in Massapequa Park on Friday morning. He is expected to appear in court later in the day, with Suffolk County prosecutors providing additional details about the arrest and the suspect during an afternoon news conference.
Investigators conducted a search of the suspect’s Massapequa Park home, hoping to find any evidence that could link Heuermann to the series of killings.
While limited information is available about Heuermann, a neighbor who spoke to NBC New York revealed that he was born and raised on Long Island and has been a lifelong resident of the Massapequa area. In an interview with “Bonjour Realty,” a YouTube channel showcasing New York City life, Heuermann mentioned working in the city since 1987 and having extensive experience with the Department of Buildings.
The Gilgo Beach murders, marked by the discovery of human remains over a decade ago, have garnered significant public attention. The case gained even more prominence when it became the subject of the 2020 Netflix film “Lost Girls.”
The deaths of 11 individuals, whose remains were found between 2010 and 2011, have long puzzled investigators. Most of the victims were young women involved in sex work, and several bodies were located near Gilgo Beach.
Identifying the culprit(s) and determining their motive has presented a challenge for seasoned homicide detectives, despite various changes in police leadership. In recent times, an interagency task force was established, involving the FBI, state, and local police departments, to intensify efforts in resolving the case.
Suffolk County Police Commissioner Rodney Harrison emphasized the renewed commitment of the Gilgo Beach task force to investigate these unsolved murders. He acknowledged the frustration surrounding the case and expressed hope that the recent developments would lead to progress. John Ray, the attorney representing the families of victims Shannan Gilbert and Jessica Taylor, cautiously welcomed the active involvement of law enforcement and awaited further developments.
Over the years, investigators have repeatedly stated that it is unlikely a single person was responsible for all the victims found near Gilgo Beach.
The news of the arrest comes after state police responded to a report of skeletal remains discovered in a wooded area off the Southern State Parkway in Islip. Authorities plan to provide a briefing near the site in the afternoon, though it remains unclear if these remains are linked to the Gilgo Beach case.
Source: cbs
