Jul 27, 2023, 12:38 PM

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Rex Heuermann's family returned to their Massapequa Park home Thursday for the first time since the arrest of the accused Gilgo Beach serial killer.

The search by investigators of Heuermann's home ended on Tuesday afternoon following a 12-day search. All of the surrounding blocks were opened again to traffic.

Detectives escorted the family back into the home.

Heuermann's wife, Asa Ellerup, was visibly upset as she returned to the house and declined to comment.

LIVE BLOG: Gilgo Beach Murders

Ellerup filed for divorce from Heuermann following his arrest, and Suffolk County Police Commissioner Rodney Harrison says the family was shocked to find out about his alleged crimes.

WATCH: DOCUMENTARY AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION - Gilgo Beach: Unsolved

As News 12 has reported, investigators obtained a massive amount of material from the home that will now be cataloged and analyzed. The backyard was also completely dug up.

Suffolk DA Ray Tierney described the amount of evidence as "fruitful" and said the investigation has broadened. He says authorities are working toward filing charges in a fourth case.

MORE: Drivers say they were ticketed for slowing down near Rex Heuermann's Massapequa Park home

Heuermann has been charged with first- and second-degree murder of three Gilgo victims: Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman and Amber Costello. He's the prime suspect in a fourth death. He pleaded not guilty last week and is due back in court Aug. 1.

Heuermann is settling into his jail cell, according to Suffolk County Sheriff Errol Toulon.

Toulon says Heuermann's recreation hours are solely for himself, and he is not allowed to interact with other inmates.

"We do not have him interacting with anyone else in the general population, for his protection, and the safety of my staff," Toulon says.

Heuermann remains on suicide watch.