For years, Long Island has been haunted by a series of disappearances, leading to a chilling discovery in 2010. Investigators stumbled upon 10 sets of human remains along a barrier island parkway near Gilgo Beach, sparking fears of a serial killer at large.
Over the years, through meticulous DNA analysis and investigative work, authorities were able to identify the victims, many of whom were involved in sex work. The case also prompted a reexamination of other unsolved killings of women in the area.
The recent developments in the case have led to the arrest and charging of a Long Island architect in connection with seven of the killings. The timeline of events sheds light on the tragic series of events that unfolded:
- 1993: Sandra Costilla's body is found in North Sea.
- 1996: Partial remains of Karen Vergata are discovered on Fire Island.
- 1997: Partial remains of a woman known as 'Peaches' are found in West Hempstead.
- 2000: Partial skeletal remains of Valerie Mack are found in Manorville.
- 2003: Partial skeletal remains of Jessica Taylor are discovered in Manorville.
- 2007: Maureen Brainard-Barnes goes missing after last being heard from on Long Island.
- 2009: Melissa Barthelemy disappears from the Bronx.
- 2010: Shannan Gilbert vanishes in Oak Beach.
- 2010: Megan Waterman is last seen in Hauppauge.
- 2010: Amber Lynn Costello disappears from West Babylon.
- 2010: Discoveries of Barthelemy, Costello, and Waterman's remains are made.
- 2011: Additional remains are found along Ocean Parkway.
- 2023: Rex Heuermann is arrested and charged with multiple murders.
- 2024: Heuermann faces additional charges and pleads not guilty.
- 2024: Police conduct new searches in Manorville and Heuermann's home.
The ongoing investigation into the Long Island serial killer case continues to unravel the mysteries surrounding these tragic events, bringing some closure to the families of the victims while seeking justice for those who lost their lives.
