DNA Match Links Murder Suspect's Wife to Crime Scene, Lawyers Offer Differing Views on Significance

Rex Heuermann, the alleged Gilgo Beach serial killer charged with murdering seven women, is challenging key DNA evidence ahead of his trial. His defense team is urging the judge to exclude nuclear DNA results derived from hairs found at six crime scenes, arguing the scientific methods used are unreliable. The case, which has captured national attention, hinges on evidence gathered by the Suffolk County District Attorney's office and the Gilgo Beach Task Force, led by DA Ray Tierney. Heuermann, an architect, husband, and father of two from Massapequa Park, denies involvement in the killings. Tierney addressed the defense’s motion, saying, "We're not going to engage in what ifs. Obviously, that's among many other key components of our case, so we're prepared to defend it." Heuermann's attorneys filed the motion in Central Islip this week, asserting that the DNA technique employed by Astrea Forensics, a California-based lab, lacks widespread acceptance in the scientific community. This motion initiates pretrial hearings to determine whether the evidence will be admissible at trial. "If we weren't confident in the efficacy and the admissibility of that evidence, we would not have used it," Tierney stated. Prosecutors believe the DNA evidence ties Heuermann to the alleged crimes. Successfully excluding the evidence could weaken the prosecution’s case. However, Tierney expressed readiness for the challenge, adding, "We’ll abide by the mandates of the court, we’ll have the hearing, and we’re looking forward to doing so." The hearing on the DNA admissibility is set to occur this winter. Depending on its outcome and the time required to address other challenges, the trial could begin later this year or early 2026. Heuermann, who was arrested last year, is also suspected in other unsolved murders connected to Gilgo Beach. However, Tierney clarified, "We don’t make any assumptions, we just continue to work the evidence and see where that evidence leads." The next court date for Heuermann is January 15, where further developments in the case may unfold. #GilgoBeach #RexHeuermann #TrueCrime #DNAEvidence #CriminalTrial #JusticeForVictims #SerialKiller 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

9 Jan 11min

Accused Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann has been charged with a seventh murder, as prosecutors revealed shocking new details tying him to the death of Valerie Mack, whose remains were discovered in 2000 and 2011. Heuermann, a 61-year-old New York architect, pleaded not guilty in court as investigators described evidence linking him to Mack's killing. Valerie Mack, who was 24 years old and working as an escort in Philadelphia, was last seen in New Jersey in 2000. Later that year, a hunter's dog found her decapitated body in a wooded area of Manorville, Long Island. Mack’s remains were bound with rope, wrapped in a plastic bag sealed with duct tape, according to prosecutors. Her hands and part of one leg had been severed from her body. More than a decade later, in 2011, authorities found additional remains belonging to Mack along Ocean Parkway near Gilgo Beach. These discoveries were part of a larger investigation into the notorious Gilgo Beach serial killings. Suffolk County prosecutors stated that mitochondrial DNA analysis played a critical role in identifying a link between Heuermann and Mack. A strand of hair found with Mack's remains matched the genetic profile of Heuermann's daughter, who would have been only 3 or 4 years old at the time of Mack's death. Prosecutors emphasized that his daughter is not suspected of any wrongdoing. Investigators also pointed to disturbing evidence seized during their investigation. Among Heuermann’s possessions were 350 electronic devices containing violent pornography featuring bondage, torture, and mutilation. Prosecutors described these materials as eerily consistent with the condition in which Mack’s body was found. A chilling discovery came in the form of a document, allegedly created in 2000, that prosecutors believe served as a "kill plan." Under a section labeled “supplies,” Heuermann had listed items such as “rope/cord,” “saw/cutting tools,” and “foam drain cleaner.” The document also contained a “body prep” section with a note to “remove head and hands.” Investigators said it included the name of one of the locations where Mack's remains were found. In addition, prosecutors said Heuermann kept newspaper clippings about the Gilgo Beach killings at his Massapequa Park home. Among the items were a 2003 New York Post article titled “Serial Killer Eyed in LI Slay” and a 1993 Newsday article headlined “Body Discovered in Woods.” Prosecutors argued these items were kept as “souvenirs or mementos” of his crimes. During the court appearance, Heuermann, shackled and wearing a suit, declared, “Your honor, I am not guilty of any of these charges.” Judge Timothy Mazzei ordered that Heuermann remain held without bail. Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney underscored the importance of seeking justice for the victims. “The lives of these women matter. We, as investigators, understand that. No one understands that more than the families,” Tierney said during a news conference. Mack’s parents, who attended the court proceedings, did not speak publicly. However, other victims’ family members showed their support by presenting roses to Mack’s parents and expressing solidarity. “They were, and they are, loved. And they are missed every day by those who knew them and who had a strong bond with them,” said Gloria Allred, who represents the families of Melissa Barthelemy, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Jessica Taylor, and Megan Waterman. Outside court, Heuermann’s attorney, Michael Brown, challenged the prosecution’s evidence, specifically questioning the reliability of the DNA analysis. Brown stated that hair samples were recovered more than a year ago and argued that the DNA methods used have not been validated in any New York case. Heuermann, who was initially arrested in July 2023, has also pleaded not guilty to the murders of six other women: Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Amber Costello, Jessica Taylor, and Sandra Costilla. The Gilgo Beach killings span decades, with the earliest victim discovered in 1993 and additional remains uncovered as recently as 2011. The case remains one of the most infamous serial murder investigations in New York history. #GilgoBeach #RexHeuermann #ValerieMack #TrueCrime #SerialKiller #JusticeForVictims #LongIslandMurders 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

6 Jan 14min

'Get Sleep Before The Hunt'' & The Writings Of Rex Heuermann-2024 Year in Review This is the " The Year in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling 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 have dominated 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.    Throughout the past year, we've followed and dissected cases such as P. Diddy, Karen Read, Scott Peterson, Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrand, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these 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 "The Year 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 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

3 Jan 5min

This is the " The Year in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling 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 have dominated 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.    Throughout the past year, we've followed and dissected cases such as P. Diddy, Karen Read, Scott Peterson, Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrand, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these 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 "The Year 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 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

3 Jan 12min

This is the " The Year in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling 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 have dominated 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.    Throughout the past year, we've followed and dissected cases such as P. Diddy, Karen Read, Scott Peterson, Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrand, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these 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 "The Year 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 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

2 Jan 7min

Did LISK Rex Heuermann Ever Think He Would Be Caught? -2024 Year in Review This is the " The Year in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling 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 have dominated 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.    Throughout the past year, we've followed and dissected cases such as P. Diddy, Karen Read, Scott Peterson, Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrand, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these 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 "The Year 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 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

31 Dec 202410min

This is the " The Year in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling 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 have dominated 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.    Throughout the past year, we've followed and dissected cases such as P. Diddy, Karen Read, Scott Peterson, Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrand, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these 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 "The Year 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 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

29 Dec 202415min

Accused Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann has been charged with a seventh murder, as prosecutors revealed shocking new details tying him to the death of Valerie Mack, whose remains were discovered in 2000 and 2011. Heuermann, a 61-year-old New York architect, pleaded not guilty in court as investigators described evidence linking him to Mack's killing. Valerie Mack, who was 24 years old and working as an escort in Philadelphia, was last seen in New Jersey in 2000. Later that year, a hunter's dog found her decapitated body in a wooded area of Manorville, Long Island. Mack’s remains were bound with rope, wrapped in a plastic bag sealed with duct tape, according to prosecutors. Her hands and part of one leg had been severed from her body. More than a decade later, in 2011, authorities found additional remains belonging to Mack along Ocean Parkway near Gilgo Beach. These discoveries were part of a larger investigation into the notorious Gilgo Beach serial killings. Suffolk County prosecutors stated that mitochondrial DNA analysis played a critical role in identifying a link between Heuermann and Mack. A strand of hair found with Mack's remains matched the genetic profile of Heuermann's daughter, who would have been only 3 or 4 years old at the time of Mack's death. Prosecutors emphasized that his daughter is not suspected of any wrongdoing. Investigators also pointed to disturbing evidence seized during their investigation. Among Heuermann’s possessions were 350 electronic devices containing violent pornography featuring bondage, torture, and mutilation. Prosecutors described these materials as eerily consistent with the condition in which Mack’s body was found. A chilling discovery came in the form of a document, allegedly created in 2000, that prosecutors believe served as a "kill plan." Under a section labeled “supplies,” Heuermann had listed items such as “rope/cord,” “saw/cutting tools,” and “foam drain cleaner.” The document also contained a “body prep” section with a note to “remove head and hands.” Investigators said it included the name of one of the locations where Mack's remains were found. In addition, prosecutors said Heuermann kept newspaper clippings about the Gilgo Beach killings at his Massapequa Park home. Among the items were a 2003 New York Post article titled “Serial Killer Eyed in LI Slay” and a 1993 Newsday article headlined “Body Discovered in Woods.” Prosecutors argued these items were kept as “souvenirs or mementos” of his crimes. During the court appearance, Heuermann, shackled and wearing a suit, declared, “Your honor, I am not guilty of any of these charges.” Judge Timothy Mazzei ordered that Heuermann remain held without bail. Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney underscored the importance of seeking justice for the victims. “The lives of these women matter. We, as investigators, understand that. No one understands that more than the families,” Tierney said during a news conference. Mack’s parents, who attended the court proceedings, did not speak publicly. However, other victims’ family members showed their support by presenting roses to Mack’s parents and expressing solidarity. “They were, and they are, loved. And they are missed every day by those who knew them and who had a strong bond with them,” said Gloria Allred, who represents the families of Melissa Barthelemy, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Jessica Taylor, and Megan Waterman. Outside court, Heuermann’s attorney, Michael Brown, challenged the prosecution’s evidence, specifically questioning the reliability of the DNA analysis. Brown stated that hair samples were recovered more than a year ago and argued that the DNA methods used have not been validated in any New York case. Heuermann, who was initially arrested in July 2023, has also pleaded not guilty to the murders of six other women: Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Amber Costello, Jessica Taylor, and Sandra Costilla. The Gilgo Beach killings span decades, with the earliest victim discovered in 1993 and additional remains uncovered as recently as 2011. The case remains one of the most infamous serial murder investigations in New York history. #GilgoBeach #RexHeuermann #ValerieMack #TrueCrime #SerialKiller #JusticeForVictims #LongIslandMurders 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

18 Dec 202414min