Man Accused in Gilgo Beach Serial Killings to Plead Guilty

Rex Heuermann expected to change plea next month, sources say

Mar. 27, 2026 at 2:50pm

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The man accused of being the Gilgo Beach serial killer, Rex Heuermann, is expected to plead guilty to the murders of seven women next month, according to two people familiar with his decision. Heuermann, a former architect, had previously pleaded not guilty but is now set to change his plea at his next scheduled court hearing on April 8.

Why it matters

The Gilgo Beach serial killings have been one of the most notorious unsolved murder cases on Long Island for over a decade. A guilty plea from Heuermann would bring a sense of closure to the victims' families and the community, while also raising questions about the investigation and potential plea deal details.

The details

Prosecutors have said DNA evidence, cellphone data, and evidence found in a search of Heuermann's home connect him to the victims, who were all young women involved in sex work. Remains of several victims were found on an isolated stretch of shoreline parkway, though some remains were scattered in other remote areas. The victims include Melissa Barthelemy, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Amber Lynn Costello, Sandra Costilla, Valerie Mack, Jessica Taylor, and Megan Waterman.

  • Heuermann is set to change his plea on April 8, 2026.
  • Heuermann was arrested in July 2023 and had previously pleaded not guilty.
  • The Gilgo Beach killings investigation first spilled into public view in 2010 when police discovered numerous sets of human remains.

The players

Rex Heuermann

A 62-year-old former architect who is accused of murdering seven women over a 17-year period 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.