Rex Heuermann: The Suburban Monster & the System That Looked Away | 2025 Year in Review

Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.     This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.     Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.     Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle. 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 Long Island Serial Killer, 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

29 Juli 202314min

Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.   This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.   Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.   Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle. 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 Long Island Serial Killer, 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

29 Juli 202324min

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 Juli 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 Juli 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 Juli 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 Juli 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 Juli 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 Juli 202312min