The mystery surrounding the remains of a woman and her young daughter found near Gilgo Beach has been solved after nearly 30 years. Tanya Denise Jackson, a 26-year-old U.S. Army veteran, and her daughter, 2-year-old Tatiana Marie Dykes, have been officially identified. Nassau County police revealed their names in a press conference on Wednesday, bringing long-awaited closure to the case.
Discovery of the Victims’ Remains
In June 1997, the torso of Tanya Jackson was found stuffed into a container at Hempstead Lake State Park. At the time, she was known only as “Peaches,” named after a tattoo of a peach on her body. Tanya had lived in Brooklyn and worked as a medical assistant before disappearing. Her daughter’s remains were uncovered years later during the investigation into the infamous Gilgo Beach murders. Although the bodies were found in separate locations, they were linked by DNA evidence in 2015.
DNA Evidence and Identification
Using genetic genealogy, authorities positively identified Tanya and Tatiana in early 2024. The identities were kept confidential until then for investigative purposes. Their remains had been connected by DNA, but the official identification process took years. This breakthrough in the case has allowed investigators to piece together more of the tragic story. The mystery of the mother and daughter has been a haunting chapter in the broader Gilgo Beach investigation.
Possible Connection to Gilgo Beach Murders
Tanya and Tatiana’s deaths were long believed to be linked to the string of murders known as the Gilgo Beach case. Over the years, the remains of at least 10 people, mostly female sex workers, were discovered along an isolated highway near the beach. Rex Heuermann, arrested in 2023, was charged with multiple murders in connection with the Gilgo Beach bodies. However, authorities have stated they do not believe Tanya and Tatiana’s deaths are connected to Heuermann. They are proceeding as if the case is unrelated to his known crimes.
Investigation into Tatiana’s Father
Authorities have also identified the father of 2-year-old Tatiana. Police say he has been cooperating with the investigation, but they have not confirmed whether he is a suspect. This part of the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are hopeful that further information from the public will help them get closer to solving the case. A $25,000 reward is being offered for any tip that leads to an arrest in connection with Tanya and Tatiana’s deaths.
Public Help is Crucial
Detective Lieutenant Stephen Fitzpatrick urged the public to come forward with any information about Tanya’s life. He asked if anyone had known her while she was in the military, worked with her in Brooklyn, or had any other connections. The police are asking for help from anyone who might have seen Tanya and Tatiana together or interacted with her at her medical appointments. Fitzpatrick emphasized the importance of community involvement in solving the case.
Commitment to Justice for Tanya and Tatiana
Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly expressed her commitment to finding justice for Tanya and Tatiana. She vowed to follow every lead, no matter how small, and ensure that the killer is brought to justice. “We will never give up,” she said, stressing that no unsolved homicide would be left behind. Donnelly promised that the investigation would continue until the case is resolved, giving hope to the victims’ loved ones.
Heuermann’s Charges in the Gilgo Beach Murders
Rex Heuermann is already facing multiple charges related to the Gilgo Beach murders. He has been charged in the deaths of three women whose remains were found over the years, including Melissa Barthelemy, Amber Lynn Costello, and Megan Waterman. He has also been charged with the deaths of four other women: Valerie Mack, Jessica Taylor, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, and Sandra Costilla. However, the newly identified victims, Tanya and Tatiana, have not been linked to Heuermann at this time. The investigation continues to explore all possible leads.
Ongoing Legal and Investigative Matters
Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney, who is leading the case against Heuermann, declined to comment on the announcement regarding Tanya and Tatiana’s identities. He stated that he would not speak on any related topics until the court proceedings for Heuermann’s case are concluded. Heuermann’s defense attorney, Michael J. Brown, also refused to comment. Heuermann has pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintains his innocence, which means the legal process will likely take time.
Moving Forward with the Investigation
The identification of Tanya and Tatiana has brought some sense of closure to their families, but many questions remain. The investigation into their deaths is far from over. Authorities are working hard to find answers, and they hope that the public will assist by providing valuable information. The $25,000 reward is an incentive for anyone who may know something that could help the case. It is clear that justice for Tanya and Tatiana remains a top priority for law enforcement.
