Rex Heuermann, the alleged serial killer from Long Island, had a deep fascination with firearms and amassed a significant collection of weapons in a concrete basement.
Among the few who were acknowledged as his acquaintances is David Zimenez, a fellow gun enthusiast who once accompanied Heuermann to a shooting range.
“I’ve been in that notorious ‘gun room’ several times. He once mentioned, ‘You’ve only been in this room four times so far,’” Zimenez recalled, referencing the documentary “Gilgo Beach Killer: Secret House.”
Zimenez described Heuermann’s collection as impressive, noting that he was well-versed in the history of each gun, including their usage and significance during major wars.
“The irony is, if he’s involved in these murders, it seems he didn’t actually use firearms,” Zimenez remarked.
After Heuermann’s arrest in 2023, he faced charges for the deaths of seven sex workers. During a search of their home, police found “around 279 weapons” in what was described as a “cluttered” environment.
Suffolk Police Chief Rodney Harrison mentioned that the safe had a substantial iron door, and authorities later indicated that some of the firearms were possessed illegally.
The family later sought to have the firearms returned for sale in 2023.
Heuermann’s wife, Asa Ellerup, and their two adult children were not permitted in the gun room.
Zimenez indicated that while the number of firearms owned by Heuermann seemed excessive, it was not unusual for a serious collector.
“He started collecting when he was 18 years old, and maybe 90% of them weren’t even filmed, many just being part of his collection,” he added.
“In the collector community, many enthusiasts will fill as much space as possible. They see it as both an investment and a hobby.”
Heuermann is also accused of committing the murders of seven individuals in a gruesome period between 1993 and 2011 on Long Island. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is currently awaiting trial.
The documentary “Gilgo Beach Killer: Secret House” is now available for viewing.
