6: Did Rex Heuermann Alleged Gilgo Beach Murderer Have Accomplice?

On the latest episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski and forensic psychologist Kate Wallinga delve deeper into the mind and environment of alleged Long Island serial killer, Rex Heuermann, providing a perspective that humanizes the individuals inadvertently trapped in the life of a supposed murderer.   Wallinga suggests that while it's easy to assume that Heuermann's family was abused or manipulated, it's crucial to distinguish between abuse and family culture. Drawing on her personal experiences, she shares that issues or problems within a family may remain unspoken for generations, creating a culture of silence that can prevent family members from recognizing troubling signs in the case of Heuermann, his wife's swift decision to file for divorce after his arrest suggests a similar family culture, where unusual behaviors were overlooked or normalized.   The topic of family culture is particularly resonant for Wallinga, who reveals that she severed ties with her clinically narcissistic mother only after she reached the age of 40. The toxicity in their relationship was normalized to the point where it was considered just "her being her." As such, the seemingly 'normal' behavior within families can often hide damaging actions or attitudes, further complicating the detection of potential criminal behaviors.   Speaking of the overall case, Wallinga shared her insights into why the murders remained unsolved for so long. She believes that the sex work aspect of the victims played a significant role in the delayed resolution. Moreover, the challenges in obtaining timely DNA results, especially in the past, contributed to the extended investigation period. This delay, coupled with the alleged killer's choice of victims less likely to attract immediate attention, helped maintain his anonymity for a prolonged period.   When discussing potential systematic failures, Wallinga acknowledges the possibility of other victims in different states based on Heuermann's travel history and potential mimicry of infamous serial killer Israel Keyes's approach. Keyes was known for his strategy of continuously changing his methods and targeting victims that would not draw much attention.   By exploring the intricate dynamics within Rex Heuermann's family and the broader systematic issues at play, Brueski and Wallinga's discussion highlights the complex layers behind a serial killer case. The podcast reminds listeners of the pervasive blindness within families and communities and underscores the importance of vigilance in spotting the abnormal within what seems to be 'normal.' Their discussion reminds us that understanding and acknowledging these hidden killers is the first step in ensuring justice for the victims and their families. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj More On This Case: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com/category/taylor-schabusiness-trial/ Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

28 Heinä 20237min

After nearly two weeks since the shocking arrest of the alleged Gilgo Beach serial killer, Rex Heuermann, his devastated family finally returned to their home in Massapequa Park, Long Island. The once-familiar dwelling had been converted into a nightmarish crime scene as police collected evidence in their investigation of the heinous acts tied to Heuermann.   Asa Ellerup, Heuermann's wife, along with their two children, Victoria, aged 26, and Christopher, aged 32, arrived at the property at around 10.30 am. Their faces were etched with solemn expressions, marking the grief and trauma that had come upon them so unexpectedly. Accompanying the distressed family was their faithful canine companion, returning to a home now overshadowed by terror and uncertainty.   The family's last public sighting was in a Best Buy parking lot where Asa initiated divorce proceedings from her husband, now branded a suspected murderer. As they set foot back into their home for the first time since the news of Heuermann's arrest, Suffolk County detectives were by their side, leaving the premises within an hour.   Asa was seen clutching a black handbag tightly, perhaps holding onto a semblance of normalcy in her world that had been turned upside down. Victoria, her daughter, was also seen carrying a blue water bottle, a bag, and a notebook. Their family home, which they had shared with Heuermann, their husband and father, respectively, for more than a decade, was now a chilling reminder of his horrific deeds.   Emotions ran high as Christopher sat on a bench outside the property with his overwhelmed mother. The solemn duo was briefly disrupted when Christopher ventured outside to take their dog for a walk. Meanwhile, multiple cats that resided in the property were taken into care during their absence.   Heuermann, aged 59, was arrested on July 13th outside his office building in Manhattan, charged with the murder of three escorts and disposing of their bodies at Gilgo Beach. The unfolding of these chilling events had left the family blindsided, according to their lawyer Robert Macedonio. He revealed, "Obviously this has been a shocking time for them and a pretty difficult time to comprehend." The investigation led police to conduct a thorough search of the property, lasting 12 days. They uncovered a soundproof room underneath the home, a discovery that heightened the spine-chilling atmosphere of the case. They seized the family's passports, computers, phones, and iPads as part of the investigation, leaving no stone unturned. It was revealed that the police had found a "tremendous amount of information" during the search, which included the assistance of cadaver dogs.   As part of the ongoing investigation, Heuermann is also being probed for six other murders, whose victims' bodies were discovered at Gilgo Beach in 2011. Heuermann's arrest has sparked not just a media frenzy but also an influx of curious onlookers, turning the quiet neighborhood into a buzz of activity. This has upset the local residents, who are apprehensive about the situation worsening once the police conclude their investigation. Authorities have responded by maintaining 24-hour surveillance and warding off unwanted visitors.   As the Heuermann family attempts to reconcile with their altered reality, authorities are tirelessly connecting the dots in the investigation. Detectives are revisiting unsolved murders across the country, interviewing jailed sex workers who interacted with him, and exploring the possibility of Heuermann's involvement in any unsolved killings in four states - New York, Nevada, South Carolina, and New Jersey Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

28 Heinä 20239min

The intricacies of the human mind, its inner workings, and the triggers that could push a person over the edge from harmless fantasy to violent, murderous action are subjects of endless fascination and speculation, particularly in the world of criminology. The case of Rex Heuermann, the alleged serial killer in the Gilgo Beach murders, offers yet another chilling opportunity to probe these issues. In a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott joined host Tony Brueski in trying to piece together the disturbing puzzle of the Heuermann case.   Scott started by highlighting that serial killers often combine sexual sadism with an attraction to violence, suggesting that exposure to violent content or experiences during early adolescence or late childhood might contribute to the making of a serial killer. This is a point of concern as it highlights the potential adverse effects of children being exposed to explicit and violent content, like certain types of pornography, which they can come across in the digital age.   The conversation then veered toward Heuermann's victim profile. Most of his alleged victims were young, petite women involved in sex work. This specific selection hints at a pattern, a specific image or type that Heuermann may have fixated on. "They've fantasized about a person with a certain look over and over and over again. And then that becomes the person that they target," said Scott.   The Heuermann case, according to Scott, simultaneously confirms and challenges societal notions about the typical profile of a serial killer. Heuermann, a functional husband and father, appears 'normal' in his work environment. Still, some people found him 'scary' or 'quirky,' reflecting the dichotomy in the public persona of such individuals.   Addressing whether someone like Heuermann could have been identified sooner, Scott acknowledged the challenges of profiling potential serial killers. "There are millions and millions of quirky, strange people who may be a little bit different. Many of them are far stranger than Heuermann is. And I don't think at this point we have any way of identifying how quirky do you have to be to come on the radar for profiling as a serial killer," she stated.   This acknowledgment emphasizes the complexity of the task at hand – millions of people have unconventional behaviors or enjoy explicit content, but only a fraction tip into acting on their darkest fantasies. Currently, we lack a foolproof tool to spot potential serial killers early in their tracks. Until then, the process of deciphering the minds of serial killers remains as perplexing and horrifying as the crimes they commit. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj More On This Case: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com/category/taylor-schabusiness-trial/ Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

27 Heinä 20236min

In the latest episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Bruski, alongside forensic psychologist Kate Wallinga, delves into the chilling details of Rex Heuermann's property. Heuermann, suspected to be the Gilgo Beach killer, has been the focus of an ongoing investigation concerning several serial killings in Long Island.   According to Wallinga, the contrast between Heuermann's professional life as an architect and the state of his home is striking. His home is in severe disrepair, starkly contrasting the aesthetic considerations you'd expect from an architect. This suggests a level of disregard for his personal environment. While this could be due to financial constraints, Wallinga posits that Heuermann might have avoided home repairs to deter contractors from potentially discovering his secrets.   Bruski and Wallinga also discuss the disturbing findings at Heuermann's home, which hint at a concealed, sinister side. One such discovery is a soundproof room with unusually thick concrete walls. While it could be dismissed as a unique architectural feature, its presence raises questions about its intended use.   The ongoing investigation has also revealed unusual findings in Heuermann's backyard, including unearthing small fragments that could be human remains. The presence of a pit has fueled speculation about it serving as a clandestine grave.   Forensic psychologist Wallinga comments on Heuermann's ability to hide his suspected criminal activities from those closest to him: "The human capacity for weirdness is pretty big," she says, adding that we typically don't jump to worst-case scenarios when we notice odd behavior in our neighbors. She highlights how the slow accumulation of oddities, coupled with plausible explanations, could have enabled Heuermann to evade suspicion for so long.   Both Bruski and Wallinga agree that Heuermann's alleged crimes align with times when his wife was out of town, suggesting that he may have used these opportunities to act on his sinister impulses. "It becomes pretty easy to say, 'Oh yeah, no, I just moved some stuff because you were out of town,'" Wallinga explains, illustrating how easily suspicious activities could be dismissed.   Despite Heuermann's arrest and the mounting evidence, there is still a lot to uncover about the suspected serial killer. The investigation at Heuermann's home is expected to yield more chilling revelations, illuminating the depths of the hidden darkness in his life. As the Hidden Killers podcast continues to track this case, listeners can expect further insight into the mind and methods of an alleged killer hiding in plain sight. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

27 Heinä 20235min

In a riveting episode of the Hidden Killers Podcast, host Tony Brueski and former FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke discussed the intricate and disturbing allegations against Rex Heuermann, suspected of being the infamous Gilgo Beach murderer.   For over 13 years, the Long Island community was haunted by the unknown identity of a serial killer whose crimes began and seemingly ended without a clear perpetrator. With the surfacing allegations against Heuermann, the mystery may finally be resolved.   One of the key elements scrutinized in the podcast was Heuermann's alarming internet search history. As Brueski referred to it, this digital fingerprint presented a disturbing insight into Heuermann's mind. Disturbing searches for violent, explicit, and underage content were cited, offering a potential window into Heuerman's psyche. According to Brueski, the search history alone could be sufficient grounds for significant legal repercussions.   As a former FBI agent, Dreeke contributed expert insights into understanding Heuermann's behavioral patterns and potential motivations. He drew attention to Heuermann's life arc, curious about what traumatic experiences or influences might have led to his current behavioral patterns. As Dreeke argued, this path likely started early and evolved over time, allowing Heuermann to become highly efficient and effective at hiding his dark secret. He postulated that this secrecy might have been an important aspect of the sense of control and power that Heuermann sought to exert.   The pair also discussed the alleged harassment of the victims' families by Heuerman. They received calls from the phones of their loved ones, often accompanied by horrendous claims and taunts, a pattern which Dreeke attributed to Heuerman's desire to exert power and control. Dreeke pointed out this consistent theme of control and power as an indicative marker of Heuermann's behavior and his deviation from societal norms.   During the investigation, Brueski and Dreeke also examined the peculiar items removed from Heuermann's home, including a haunting doll in a case. This odd collection led them to speculate on Heuermann's 'trophy room' and his success in normalizing abnormal behavior within his household. Dreeke suggested that Heuermann may have been conducting 'experiments' to satisfy his psychological needs, using deviant behaviors as tools.   Finally, the discussion veered toward the impending legal proceedings. Heuermann's protestations of innocence were not unexpected, and Dreeke anticipated that Heuermann would continue to deny his involvement, leveraging his well-practiced ability to hide his shameful actions. However, Dreeke expressed confidence that the mounting evidence would likely lead to a conviction, effectively removing Heuermann from society.   The conversation between Brueski and Dreeke provided a sobering insight into the complex and troubling case against Rex Heuermann. As the legal proceedings progress, the allegations against him will be thoroughly examined, and, if found guilty, Heuermann will be held accountable for his horrifying actions. Regardless of the outcome, this case is a stark reminder of society's often hidden yet persistently menacing undercurrents. Want to listen to ALL our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for 3 days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

26 Heinä 202311min

On the quiet streets of Massapequa Park, Long Island, a home that once held the semblance of normalcy, now lies at the center of a chilling investigation involving the infamous Gilgo Beach serial killings. The property, owned by 59-year-old architect Rex Heuermann, who stands accused of the murders, has become a crime scene fraught with intrigue and disturbing findings. Starting with the house itself, the otherwise nondescript suburban dwelling hides ominous features. Its basement was found to be fortified with concrete walls, estimated to be two to three feet thick. With an unusually heavy-duty safe door, the fortified room more closely resembles a vault than a typical basement. Given Heuermann's alleged double life as a serial killer, this concealed room's purpose has been speculated as a possible site for perpetuating his horrifying acts. However, law enforcement agencies have yet to confirm this. The excavation of the backyard brought to light an assortment of objects. Forensic officers unearthed several fragments from the ground, which sparked speculation about their possible human origin. However, experts caution that these could be animal remains or unrelated artifacts. Regardless, the find contributes to the eerie atmosphere surrounding Heuermann's property, hinting at potential clandestine activities. Inside the house, investigators retrieved a colossal collection of over 200 firearms, a discovery striking in both quantity and implications. Interestingly, Heuermann only had permits for 92 of these weapons, raising questions about the acquisition and intended use of the unregistered firearms. Given the violent nature of the crimes he is accused of, the weapons cache could serve as a chilling testament to his preparedness for lethal action. Among the items removed from the home were a large doll encased in glass and a portrait of a woman bearing a facial bruise. These peculiar items may hold symbolic or psychological importance for Heuermann, although their exact significance remains unclear. In addition to the physical evidence within Heuermann's home, the surrounding property has been subject to intense scrutiny. Authorities brought in specialized equipment, including ground-penetrating radar and cadaver-sniffing dogs, to conduct a comprehensive search. It's also noteworthy that investigators had to dismantle a wooden deck at the house during the search process. Its removal, like the unearthing of the concealed basement, indicates a thorough search for hidden compartments or buried evidence - a testament to the scope and depth of this investigation. Authorities have been tight-lipped about the connections between these findings and the alleged crimes. The investigation's focus now moves from the excavation phase to the analysis of the evidence collected. As the mystery unfolds, each piece of evidence could serve as a crucial puzzle in understanding the disturbing narrative around Rex Heuermann. From the fortified basement to the trove of firearms and the enigmatic fragments in the backyard, each item could bring us closer to unraveling the secrets hidden within the walls of the architect's home and shed light on the gruesome events that have haunted Long Island for over a decade. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

26 Heinä 202312min

The gripping saga of the Gilgo Beach murders, now allegedly connected to the architect Rex Heuermann, continues to unfurl as shocking developments surface from the suspect's home. In a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski delves into the intricacies of the case with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott, trying to unravel the complex web of Heuermann's mind and motivations.    Among the myriad of issues discussed in the podcast was the striking disparity between Heuermann's profession as an architect and the state of his home. Scott, the author of "The Minds of Mass Killers," opines that this incongruity could indicate deeper psychological issues. "We need to pay attention to all these...subtle signs of something being off. And yeah, that's a red flag," she suggests.    The podcast also delves into the disturbing finds in Heuermann's home. Authorities are currently excavating parts of his yard and have uncovered large pits and a soundproof room, igniting questions about the level of awareness his family members might have had about his sinister activities.    "It's quite possible that dad is just quirky or dad has his way of doing things or dad keeps the room with all the guns locked for safety purposes," Scott hypothesizes, emphasizing the fact that family members of serial killers are often unaware of their loved one's criminal activities.    The conversation then veers towards understanding Heuermann's potential motivations for targeting sex workers. Scott underscores that while it would be ideal to pinpoint a definitive cause for such horrific behavior, finding consistent commonalities among serial killers is challenging. "It's hard to say. What is it about their past that could make them do this?" she questions.    Although it's hard to piece together a psychological profile based on the information currently available, Scott does outline some potential factors that could contribute to a person becoming a serial killer. "Obviously, a lot of anger at women. Were they humiliated by women in some way in the past? Sometimes we can find that, but certainly not always," she says, adding that further research is needed to truly understand the complex psychological dynamics at play.    The podcast ends on a chilling note, with Scott highlighting the recurring cycle of violent fantasies that often drive serial killers. "We do know that the fantasies typically start very early in adolescence or even sooner than that in some cases... they keep killing because they're trying to find the perfect victim and have the perfect scenario that fits their fantasy."    As the case against Heuermann continues to unravel, the puzzle of his psyche and motivations remains an elusive, terrifying enigma. As we seek answers, the disturbing discoveries at his home serve as chilling reminders of the real-life horror that unfolded in the quiet coastal region of Gilgo Beach.    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

25 Heinä 20237min

In a recent episode of the Hidden Killers Podcast, Tony Brueski and former FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke delved into the chilling case of Rex Heuermann, the alleged Gilgo Beach murderer. Their conversation provides insight into how cold cases like this suddenly heat up and sheds light on how technological advancements and effective leadership can be crucial in solving such crimes.   The Gilgo Beach Murders, which had been dormant for over a decade, have recently gained renewed attention. With suspects like Rex Heuermann now under scrutiny, the question arises - why now? The case remained cold for so long, as do many others. Brueski questioned Dreeke on how, after 13 long years, the authorities finally zeroed in on a potential perpetrator.   The former FBI agent pointed to several factors that contributed to the breakthrough. Technological advancements, improved criminology techniques, and new insights into cold cases were all acknowledged. However, Dreeke believes leadership played a pivotal role in revitalizing this investigation. The willingness to innovate, to take another look at a case long gone cold, could bring about justice and closure for the victims' families. Dreeke's emphasis on leadership underscores the importance of an investigative culture that encourages revisiting old cases, even when resources are scarce and the pressure to solve current cases is high. Such an attitude requires courage, initiative, and the proactive actions of dedicated teams. The payoff, Dreeke suggests, is significant. Not only could this case bring closure to affected families, but it could also pave the way for the resolution of other cold cases.   Brueski and Dreeke also discussed the role of technology in modern investigations. Specifically, they discussed using artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze traffic patterns to track suspects. While Brueski wondered if such techniques had been used in the Heuerman case, Dreeke affirmed the potential of AI as a tool in future investigations. However, the retired FBI agent cautioned against over-reliance on AI, suggesting it should be considered one of the many tools at an investigator's disposal, not a panacea for all investigative challenges.   Dreeke also highlighted the value of wisdom born from real-world experience and education. While AI offers unparalleled analytical capabilities, it lacks the nuanced understanding that human investigators bring to a case. Law enforcement can solve cases more effectively by leveraging AI and human expertise.   The conversation concluded with a note of hope. As technology continues to evolve and as leadership in investigative agencies continues to encourage the re-examination of cold cases, the future looks promising. The merging of AI with traditional investigative techniques, coupled with advances in DNA matching, provides optimism that justice can be served, and closure can be provided to countless families and communities affected by such crimes.   As the case against Rex Heuermann unfolds, it serves as a testament to the importance of the persistent investigation, innovative leadership, and the effective utilization of modern technological tools. Want to listen to ALL our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for 3 days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

25 Heinä 20238min