Family of Gilgo Beach Serial Killer’s Wife Rebuilds Life Amidst Public Scrutiny
The family of Rex Heuermann, charged in the Gilgo Beach serial killings, has become an unlikely presence in their Massapequa Park neighborhood following his arrest last month. Heuermann’s wife, Asa Ellerup, and their two children, Victoria and Christopher, left their rundown house just before the media frenzy began. However, they have since returned and have been seen regularly outside their home.
Neighbors have noticed a change in the family’s behavior since the arrest. They are now frequently seen on the front porch or having barbecues on the front lawn. The family’s lawyer, Vess Mitev, explained that the house was left uninhabitable due to the investigation, with debris piled up floor-to-ceiling.
The Gilgo Beach case has captivated the public for years. Heuermann was arrested on July 13 and is charged with murdering three of the 11 victims whose bodies were found over a decade ago. Prosecutors allege that he hired the women as escorts and then killed them.
The family’s lawyers are seeking to address the damage caused by investigators during the search for evidence. They argue that the house was torn apart, with floorboards ripped up and belongings thrown into disarray. The family’s lawyers held a news conference on the front lawn to discuss the damage.
There has been speculation about Asa Ellerup’s knowledge of her husband’s crimes. John Ray, a lawyer representing the families of two victims, called for Ellerup to be investigated. However, her lawyer, Robert Macedonio, dismissed the claims, stating that she knew nothing about the crimes.
Ms. Ellerup has filed for divorce and is considering suing the authorities for the damage caused during the investigation. She has not visited her husband in jail but has spoken to him on the phone once. The family’s lawyers have set up an online fundraiser which has raised over $50,000 to help them with their financial difficulties.
Neighbors have mixed reactions to the family’s return. Some are sympathetic, while others want the house torn down. The family’s lawyers say they are focused on rebuilding and fixing up the house. However, with the ongoing public scrutiny and their financial hardship, their future remains uncertain.