Full Breakdown
Retired Army Veteran Charged with Murder of Tanya Jackson, Linked to Gilgo Beach Investigation
12/19/2025, 7:10:21 AM
Overview of the Case
Andrew Dykes, a 66-year-old retired Army veteran and former Tennessee state trooper, pleaded not guilty to the second-degree murder of Tanya Denise Jackson, a fellow military veteran. Jackson's remains were discovered in 1997 near Gilgo Beach, an area associated with multiple unsolved murders. Prosecutors assert that Dykes, who had a relationship with Jackson and fathered her child, is responsible for her death, which they describe as a violent act by someone she trusted.
Key Details of the Incident
Tanya Jackson, 26, was killed in 1997, with her dismembered body found in a container at Hempstead Lake State Park. Her remains were identified only recently through advanced DNA techniques, and she had been known as “Peaches” due to a tattoo on her body. Dykes was arrested in Tampa, Florida, on December 3, 2023, and is currently held in custody, awaiting further court proceedings scheduled for January 16, 2024.
Relationship Background
Dykes and Jackson met while stationed at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, and began a relationship while Dykes was still married. They had a daughter, Tatiana Marie Dykes, who was found deceased in 2011, although Dykes has not been charged in her death. Prosecutors have indicated that Jackson's murder is distinct from the broader Gilgo Beach killings, which involve a suspected serial killer, Rex Heuermann, who has been charged in connection with several other murders in the area.
Evidence and Legal Proceedings
Prosecutors claim to have DNA evidence linking Dykes to Jackson's murder, including a match between DNA found on Jackson's body and genetic material recovered from a cup discarded by Dykes. His lawyer, Joseph Lo Piccolo, has stated that he intends to challenge this DNA evidence, emphasizing Dykes' long-standing reputation as a law-abiding citizen and his history in law enforcement and the military.
Criticism and Opposition
While Dykes maintains his innocence, the prosecution has framed the case as one of domestic violence, highlighting the betrayal of trust involved. Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly remarked on the nature of Jackson's death, stating, “Tanya didn’t meet her end at the hands of a serial killer. She was a victim of horrifying violence by a person she trusted.” Family members of Jackson were present during the arraignment but chose not to comment publicly.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is a notable distinction between the current case against Dykes and the ongoing investigation into the Gilgo Beach murders. While Dykes is charged with Jackson's murder, the connection to the larger series of killings remains unclear, with law enforcement suggesting that the area may have been used by multiple perpetrators.
Verbatim Quotes
- “She was a victim of horrifying violence by a person she trusted.” — Anne Donnelly, Nassau County District Attorney
- “He’s a father. He led a life that many would respect in law enforcement, in the military,” — Joseph Lo Piccolo, Dykes' Lawyer
This case continues to unfold as authorities investigate the implications of Dykes' alleged actions and their relation to the broader Gilgo Beach investigation.
