LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK: After more than a decade, the infamous Gilgo Beach murders case has finally witnessed a breakthrough. Architect Rex Heuermann, 59, was apprehended on Friday, July 14, in connection with the deaths of three women, bringing renewed hope for justice. Heuermann's arrest not only puts him under scrutiny but also sheds light on the fate of Amber Lynn Costello, believed to be the fourth victim among the group known as the "Gilgo Four."
Detectives made a breakthrough when they discovered a DNA match between a pizza crust consumed by Heuermann and genetic material found on the victims' remains. This evidence, combined with a witness report linking Heuermann to a pickup truck seen during one of the victims' disappearances in 2010, led to his arrest.
Heuermann currently faces three counts of first-degree murder and three counts of second-degree murder in the deaths of Melissa Barthelemy, Amber Lynn Costello and Megan Waterman. Although not formally charged, he is also suspected in the murder of Maureen Brainard-Barnes, further deepening the investigation.
Who was Amber Lynn Costello?
Costello, 27 years old at the time, resided at 1112 America Ave in West Babylon. She was last seen by acquaintances and led a challenging life as a heroin addict. She supported her addiction by working as a sex worker, advertising her services on platforms such as Craigslist and Backpage. Known by the names Carolina or Mia, she had distinctive tattoos on her neck, lower back and the word “Margeret” on her leg.
Costello shared a home with two male roommates and another female roommate, all of whom struggled with heroin addiction. The male roommates would arrange dates with clients for the female roommates, often involving scams where they confronted the clients for money before any sexual acts occurred. Costello did “in-calls” in her home, as well as “out-calls."
When did Amber Lynn Costello go missing?
On September 2, 2010, Costello left her residence on foot to meet a client who was picking her up from her home. She did not have her cell phone with her at the time. Shockingly, she was never reported missing. It wasn't until December 13, 2010, during the search for Shannan Gilbert, that Costello's remains were discovered on the north side of Ocean Parkway near Gilgo Beach. She was believed to be the fourth victim among the group referred to as the "Gilgo Four." With Heuermann's arrest, investigators are working diligently to unravel the full truth behind these chilling murders.
