‘Like a scene from Criminal Minds’: Neighbors of Gilgo Beach killings suspect shocked by the arrest
Locals told News 12 that they are riveted by the new developments.
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Neighbors of accused Gilgo Beach killer Rex Heuermann have been left shocked by his arrest in the infamous cold case.
The 59-year-old was arrested in New York City on Thursday, more than a year after a police task force explored his possible connection to the crimes.
Prosecutors say DNA evidence and cellphone data point to the architect and father of two as a suspect in the murders of Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman and Amber Costello.
Authorities say he is also the prime suspect in the 2007 disappearance and death of a fourth woman, Maureen Brainard-Barnes.
Heuermann’s house on 1st Avenue in Massapequa Park remains an active crime scene as law enforcement officials continue carrying out boxes filled with his belongings.
Locals told News 12 that they are riveted by the new developments.
“It looks like a scene from a movie like 'Criminal Minds.' It's right here. So crazy,” said resident Paige Pagano.
“He's some sick guy if it's true,” said Louise Colle.
Plainedge resident Juliana Hagmaier was 10 years old when the first body was unearthed along Ocean Parkway in 2010.
“I remember never being able to go to Gilgo because my parents were nervous,” she said.
Onlookers in Massapequa Park say they hope the arrest will give the victim’s families a long-awaited sense of closure.
“I'm just happy that there's finally going to be accountability and people are not just wondering who's next,” said Bay Shore resident Mayda Vargas.
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