Rex Heuerman Pleads Guilty to Multiple Murders
On April 8, 2026, Rex Heuerman entered a guilty plea in court, acknowledging his involvement in the murders of eight women during a horrific 17-year period in Riverhead, New York. Heuerman, who was arrested in 2023, is associated with the Gilgo Beach serial killer case.
In his court statement, Heuerman admitted to killing seven women from 1993 to 2010, revealing that he strangled the victims before disposing of their bodies—some of which he dismembered. The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office released a statement detailing his confessions.
Heuerman also took responsibility for the death of Karen Vergata, which was not formally charged but was included in the plea deal. Reports indicate he strangled her and mutilated her remains.
The list of confirmed victims includes Sandra Costilla, Valerie Mack, Jessica Taylor, Maureen Brainard Barnes, Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Costello. Most of these victims’ bodies were discovered in the Gilgo Beach area between 2010 and 2011.
Despite being in custody since 2023 and facing substantial evidence against him, Heuerman has consistently claimed his innocence. In fact, police found a significant number of weapons—279 to be precise—stored in a basement safe, alongside a computer containing detailed information related to the murders.
Sentencing is set for June 17, where Heuerman is expected to receive three consecutive life sentences without the chance of parole, amounting to a 100-year term. His guilty plea regarding Vergata’s murder was part of a deal that involved acknowledgment of seven other victims.
His ex-wife, Asa Ellerup, and daughter, Victoria Heuerman, attended the court hearing. Following the proceedings, Ellerup expressed her condolences for the victims and their families, highlighting the immeasurable loss experienced and requesting privacy for her family during this challenging time.
While Heuerman will not face additional charges tied to the eight murders, he is required to cooperate with the FBI as part of his agreement.
