Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Gilgo Beach Killer Confesses to Eight Murders

4/21/2026

50 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Rex Heuermann confessed to his ex-wife Asa Ellerup that he killed eight women, seven in Massapequa Park, tied to The Gilgo Beach Killer: House of Secrets.
Ellerup recalled Heuermann saying he was nervous and killings happened when she was away.
Heuermann has pleaded guilty to seven murders and an uncharged eighth; sentencing is set for June 17.
The documentary has faced backlash for paying Heuermann's family over $1 million.

History

Historical Context

The Gilgo Beach serial killings, spanning from 1993 to 2010, involved the discovery of ten victims along Long Island, primarily women. The case gained national attention in late 2010, revealing systemic failures in addressing gender-based violence. In 2023, Rex Heuermann was charged with seven murders linked to this case, reigniting discussions on crime reporting ethics and societal responses to violence against women.

1 of 2

Story summary

Rex Heuermann confessed to his ex-wife Asa Ellerup that he killed eight women, seven in Massapequa Park, tied to The Gilgo Beach Killer: House of Secrets.
Ellerup recalled Heuermann saying he was nervous and killings happened when she was away.
Heuermann has pleaded guilty to seven murders and an uncharged eighth; sentencing is set for June 17.
The documentary has faced backlash for paying Heuermann's family over $1 million.

1 / 2