Rex Heuermann, the suspect charged in the deaths of three women whose remains were discovered on a Long Island beach roadway over a decade ago, is believed to have killed at least one of his victims at his home in Massapequa Park, according to sources close to the investigation. Heuermann lived in the home with his wife and two adult children, who were reportedly away at the time of the alleged murders.
Law enforcement officials in Suffolk County have already executed several court-authorized search warrants in various locations across the United States, including Las Vegas and South Carolina, where Heuermann may have had ties. During one of these searches, a Chevrolet Avalanche truck believed to be connected to the suspect and potentially used in at least one of the murders was recovered in South Carolina and transported to Suffolk County. Investigators in Long Island plan to thoroughly examine the truck for any evidence relevant to the crimes.
In a recent development, Heuermann’s wife, Asa Ellerup, has filed for divorce after a twenty-year marriage. According to Ellerup’s attorney, Robert Macedonio, she and their two children were completely unaware of Heuermann’s alleged double life.
Heuermann, a 59-year-old architect, has been charged with the murders of three women: Melissa Barthelemy, Amber Costello, and Megan Waterman. The victims’ bodies were discovered within a quarter-mile of each other along Ocean Parkway.
These three victims were among the ten sets of human remains found at Gilgo Beach on Long Island between 2010 and 2011. The search for another missing woman, Shannan Gilbert, led to the discovery of these remains. Initially, police classified Gilbert’s death as an accidental drowning in a coastal marsh, but her family has contested this assertion.
At the time of Heuermann’s indictment, prosecutors also considered him a suspect in the death of a fourth woman, Maureen Brainard-Barnes. Heuermann has pleaded not guilty to the initial charges and is currently in custody under suicide watch.
The investigation into the Gilgo Beach serial killings continues as authorities work to uncover more evidence and determine if Heuermann may be connected to additional victims. The discovery of the Chevrolet Avalanche truck in South Carolina adds a new element to the case, as investigators hope to find valuable clues that could shed light on the identities of other potential victims and provide justice for their families.
The community remains shocked by the revelation of Heuermann’s alleged crimes, especially his family, who are grappling with the unimaginable realization that they lived with a killer for many years. The divorce filing by Asa Ellerup suggests a desire to distance herself and her children from the horrors committed by her husband.
In the midst of this horrifying and complex case, it is important to remember the victims—Melissa Barthelemy, Amber Costello, Megan Waterman, and potentially more—whose lives were tragically cut short. Their families continue to seek justice and closure, hoping that Heuermann will be held accountable for his alleged crimes.
As the investigation progresses, law enforcement officials and prosecutors will work tirelessly to gather all available evidence, interview witnesses, and meticulously examine the recovered truck. The goal is to build an airtight case against Heuermann and ensure that justice is served for the victims and their families.
The ongoing investigation serves as a reminder of the importance of diligent police work, the dedication of law enforcement officials, and the resilience of communities affected by crimes of this nature. The hope is that through the tireless efforts of investigators and the support of the community, justice will be served and those responsible for these heinous crimes will be brought to justice.
