Published: April 13, 2026
Rex Heuermann, the man accused in the long-running Gilgo Beach murders investigation in Long Island, New York, pleaded guilty on Wednesday, April 8, to multiple killings that spanned nearly two decades, bringing a major development in a case that has unsettled the region for years.
Heuermann, a 62-year-old architect, admitted in court to murdering seven women: Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, Amber Costello, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Jessica Taylor, Sandra Costilla, and Valerie Mack. He also acknowledged responsibility for the killing of Karen Vergata, which had not previously been charged.
During the hearing, Heuermann confirmed that each victim died by strangulation. His sentencing is scheduled for June 17.
The courtroom was visibly emotional as Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney asked Heuermann to confirm details of each killing. Family members of the victims reacted audibly as he answered “yes” to a series of questions about his role in their deaths.
Heuermann’s ex-wife, Asa Ellerup, addressed reporters after the proceedings, expressing sympathy for the victims’ families and asking for privacy for her own family. His attorney, Michael Brown, said the decision to plead guilty ultimately rested with Heuermann, who chose to accept responsibility rather than proceed to trial.
As part of the plea agreement, Heuermann has agreed to cooperate with the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, providing information about the crimes as part of a broader effort to understand the case.
The investigation dates back to 2010, when authorities discovered human remains along Ocean Parkway near Gilgo Beach while searching for a missing woman. Over time, additional remains were recovered across Long Island, with investigators relying heavily on DNA testing and other forensic evidence to identify victims and connect cases.
Heuermann was arrested in July 2023 outside his office in Midtown Manhattan after investigators linked him to a vehicle connected to one victim’s disappearance. Prosecutors later said DNA evidence, cellphone records, and internet search history further tied him to the killings.
Authorities also recovered DNA from discarded pizza crusts, which was matched to evidence found on the victims. A search of his home in Massapequa Park uncovered a large cache of weapons and digital files that prosecutors described as detailed plans related to the crimes.
Officials say the guilty plea marks a significant step toward closure for the victims’ families. Speaking after the hearing, relatives expressed relief that the case would not go to trial, while acknowledging the lasting impact of their loss.
If sentenced as expected, Heuermann will spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of parole.
