Man Accused in Gilgo Beach Serial Killings Expected to Plead Guilty

Rex Heuermann, charged with murdering 7 women over 17 years, plans to change plea next month, sources say.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 11:00am

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According to two people familiar with the case, the man accused of the infamous Gilgo Beach serial killings on Long Island, Rex Heuermann, intends to plead guilty to the murders at his next scheduled court hearing on April 8. Heuermann, a former architect, had previously pleaded not guilty to charges of killing seven young women involved in sex work over a 17-year period.

Why it matters

The Gilgo Beach serial killings have been one of the most high-profile and disturbing unsolved murder cases in recent memory. A guilty plea from the accused would bring a long-awaited sense of closure for the victims' families and the broader community, though many questions likely remain about the killer's motives and the full scope of his crimes.

The details

Prosecutors have said DNA evidence, cellphone data, and evidence found in a search of Heuermann's home connect him to the victims, whose remains were discovered along an isolated stretch of shoreline parkway. The victims include Melissa Barthelemy, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Amber Lynn Costello, Sandra Costilla, Valerie Mack, Jessica Taylor, and Megan Waterman. Investigators were able to link Heuermann to the crimes through a discarded pizza crust that contained his DNA, as well as his internet search history and communications with some of the victims.

  • Heuermann is set to change his plea from not guilty at his next scheduled court hearing on April 8, 2026.
  • Heuermann was arrested in July 2023 and had previously told the court he wasn't guilty.

The players

Rex Heuermann

A 62-year-old former architect charged with murdering seven women over 17 years in the Gilgo Beach serial killings case.

Ray Tierney

The Suffolk County District Attorney who declined to comment on the case.

Gloria Allred

A prominent California lawyer representing some of the families of the victims.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.