A New York architect, Rex Heuermann, facing charges in the Gilgo Beach killings, was accused on Tuesday in the death of a fourth woman, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, a Connecticut mother of two who disappeared in 2007.
Heuermann, labeled the prime suspect in her death since his arrest in July for the deaths of three other women, appeared in court wearing a dark suit, maintaining silence as his lawyer entered a not guilty plea. He remains held without bail until his next court date on Feb. 6.
The breakthrough in the case came from DNA extracted from hair at the scene, genetically similar to Heuermann’s ex-wife’s DNA. Prosecutors revealed that during Brainard-Barnes’ disappearance, Heuermann’s ex-wife and daughter were staying out of town at a hotel in Atlantic City.
In the months leading up to his arrest, Heuermann’s fear of getting caught was evident as he obtained data wiping software to destroy evidence on his electronic devices, including laptops and phones. Investigators seized hundreds of devices during their search of Heuermann’s home, revealing troves of bondage and torture pornography.
Court documents released Tuesday also said DNA from an energy drink can that Heuermann’s daughter discarded helped tie him to the suspected serial killings.
Heuermann’s attorney, Michael Brown, emphasized his client’s innocence and questioned some of the evidence presented by prosecutors. Brown raised concerns about the new DNA analysis introduced 13 years after Brainard-Barnes’ body was discovered.
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney defended the validity of the evidence, citing advancements in DNA testing technology. The indictment marks the end of the investigation into the “Gilgo four” victims, providing some closure for their families. Prosecutors now shift their focus to prosecuting these cases and investigating other bodies found nearby.
Brainard-Barnes, a sex worker, disappeared in 2007, leaving her family distraught. Her daughter, Nicolette, shared memories of her mother reading to her and expressed the profound loss she experienced.
Heuermann, previously charged with killing three other women, has maintained his innocence. The Gilgo Beach area revealed the remains of multiple victims, leading to an extensive investigation that implicated Heuermann through cellphone data, call records, and DNA testing.
Last summer, Heuermann’s family provided DNA samples for comparison, linking him to evidence found near the crime scenes. The investigation involved thorough searches of his home, including yard excavation, porch dismantling, and extensive testing of various items.
