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It has been exactly two years since News 12 broke a major development in one of Long Island’s most haunting cold cases — the arrest of a suspect in the Gilgo Beach murders.
Where Things Stand Now
Rex Heuermann, the Massapequa Park architect accused of being the Gilgo Beach serial killer, remains behind bars at the Riverhead Jail. Since his arrest on July 14, 2023, a timeline of chilling revelations and legal developments has continued to unfold.
A Timeline of Key Developments
July 14, 2023: News 12 sources confirm a suspect is in custody. Former Suffolk County Police Commissioner Rodney Harrison calls Heuermann “a demon that walks among us.” He is charged with the murders of Megan Waterman, Melissa Barthelemy and Amber Costello.
Following the Arrest: Police spend 12 days searching Heuermann’s small red home in Massapequa Park.
Jan. 16, 2024: Heuermann is charged in the murder of Maureen Brainard-Barnes, bringing the victim count to four.
April 2024: Police conduct extensive searches in Manorville and North Sea using helicopters and K-9 units.
May 2024: Authorities return for a second search of Heuermann’s Massapequa home.
June 6, 2024: In court, Heuermann is charged with two additional murders — Jessica Taylor and Sandra Costilla.
Dec. 17, 2024: He faces another charge, this time for the death of Valerie Mack, bringing the total number of alleged victims to seven.
Legal Battles and Scientific Evidence
As the investigation deepened, so did the legal complexities. Heuermann’s attorney, Michael Brown, maintains his client’s innocence, stating, “He has said from Day 1 he is not responsible for these murders.”
Meanwhile, a pivotal Frye hearing began in March 2025, aiming to determine the admissibility of nuclear DNA evidence found in hairs collected from the victims. Prosecutors claim the hairs belong to Heuermann’s wife and daughter, tying the suspect to the crimes.
What’s Next
The Frye hearing is set to resume this Thursday. Only after its conclusion will the court consider the defense’s motion to sever the charges.
As for a trial date, Heuermann’s legal team says the earliest it could begin is sometime in 2026.
Stay with News 12 for continuing coverage as the case against Rex Heuermann unfolds — two years after that first shocking headline changed everything.
