Rex Heuermann in court/image credit-Austin Kellerman
Rex Heuermann, a New York architect previously charged in the Gilgo Beach serial killings, now faces an additional second-degree murder charge for the death of Valerie Mack. Mack, a 24-year-old escort from Philadelphia, disappeared in 2000. Her partial remains were discovered in Manorville, New York, in November 2000, with further remains found near Gilgo Beach in 2011.
Background on Valerie Mack
Valerie Mack, also known as Melissa Taylor, was last seen in the spring or summer of 2000 in Port Republic, New Jersey. Her remains were unidentified for two decades until genetic testing confirmed her identity in 2020.
Evidence Linking Heuermann to Mack’s Murder
Investigators connected Heuermann to Mack’s murder through DNA evidence. Hair found on Mack’s remains matched the genetic profile of Heuermann’s daughter, suggesting secondary transfer from Heuermann. Additionally, searches of Heuermann’s residence uncovered detailed notes and violent pornographic images related to the killings, further implicating him.
Previous Charges Against Heuermann
Prior to this latest charge, Heuermann was accused of murdering six women whose remains were found in the Gilgo Beach area. The victims include Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, Amber Costello, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Jessica Taylor, and Sandra Costilla. Heuermann has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is currently held without bail at the Riverhead Correctional Facility in Suffolk County.
Ongoing Investigations
Authorities continue to investigate other unsolved cases in the Gilgo Beach area, including the deaths of Karen Vergata and three unidentified individuals. As of now, Heuermann has not been charged in connection with these cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Rex Heuermann?
- Rex Heuermann is a New York-based architect accused of being the Gilgo Beach serial killer, linked to the murders of multiple women whose remains were found on Long Island.
- What is the significance of the Gilgo Beach murders?
- The Gilgo Beach murders refer to a series of unsolved killings involving at least 11 victims, primarily young women, whose remains were discovered along Ocean Parkway near Gilgo Beach, Long Island, between 2010 and 2011.
- How was Valerie Mack identified?
- Valerie Mack was identified in 2020 through genetic testing, two decades after her remains were found in Manorville and near Gilgo Beach.
- What evidence links Heuermann to Mack’s murder?
- DNA evidence, including hair matching Heuermann’s daughter found on Mack’s remains, and incriminating materials discovered in Heuermann’s home, link him to Mack’s murder.
- What are the next steps in the legal proceedings against Heuermann?
- Heuermann is scheduled for further court appearances as the legal process continues. Investigations into other potential victims are ongoing.
The Gilgo Beach serial killings have haunted Long Island for over a decade. The recent charge against Rex Heuermann in Valerie Mack’s murder marks a significant development in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.