Rex Heuermann was charged with second-degree murder in the deaths of Jessica Taylor and Sandra Costilla before Suffolk County Superior Court Judge Timothy Mazzei.
The man accused of murdering multiple sex workers and abandoning their bodies on a Long Island beach faces new charges, with prosecutors revealing a “planning document” detailing the grisly crimes.
Rex Heuermann, a 60-year-old former architect, was charged with second-degree murder in the deaths of Jessica Taylor and Sandra Costilla before Suffolk County Superior Court Judge Timothy Mazzei on Thursday. These charges bring the total number of women Heuermann is accused of killing to at least six.
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Following Heuermann’s arrest, investigators discovered several electronic devices, including a laptop containing a Microsoft Word document titled “HK2002-04.” This document, created in 2000 and frequently edited in 2002, included sections on “problems,” “supplies,” “DS,” and “TRG,” detailing various aspects of the murders.
The “problems” section listed potential evidence like DNA, tire marks, and footprints. “Supplies” included items such as rope, tarps, tape, medical gloves, and cleaning agents. “DS” likely referred to “dump site” locations, while “TRG” indicated “target,” suggesting a preference for petite women, consistent with the known victims.
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney described the document as a meticulous blueprint for the murders, revealing Heuermann’s intent and careful planning. The document also outlined “post event” actions, including body preparation instructions and reminders to dispose of evidence.
Heuermann’s attorney, Michael Brown, entered a not-guilty plea and refrained from commenting on the new charges until further review. Judge Mazzei ordered Heuermann to remain in custody without bail, with the next court date set for July 30.
Rex Heuermann was arrested on July 13 while walking in New York City. He was initially charged with the murders of Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Lynn Costello, and later with Maureen Brainard-Barnes’ killing. The victims’ remains were discovered around Gilgo Beach, unsolved for over a decade.
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Jessica Taylor, 20, disappeared in July 2003, her remains found in separate incidents in 2003 and 2011. Sandra Costilla’s body was found by hunters in Southampton in 1993. Hair evidence linked Heuermann to both victims with a 99.96-percent match.
The planning document also referenced “Mindhunter,” a book about the FBI’s serial crime unit, suggesting Heuermann used it to refine his methods and evade law enforcement.
Tierney emphasized the document’s significance, noting Heuermann’s apparent belief that it had been destroyed. Investigators continue to examine other potential victims linked to Heuermann, including Valerie Mack.
“We owe that to the victims,” Tierney said. “That’s the least we can do.”