Title: Wife of Serial Killer Suspect Files for Divorce as Shock and Investigation Unfold
Massapequa Park, New York – Asa Ellerup, the wife of murder suspect Rex Heuermann, has filed for divorce just days after her husband’s shocking arrest in connection with the “Gilgo Four” killings. Suffolk County’s top cop, Commissioner Rodney Harrison, believes that Ellerup and her daughter were unaware of Heuermann’s alleged double life. However, authorities are still investigating to determine if any family members had knowledge of his criminal activities.
Heuermann, 59, was apprehended last week and charged with murder in relation to the deaths of three women whose remains were discovered on Gilgo Beach in 2010. While he is also considered the prime suspect in the fourth woman’s disappearance and murder, he has yet to be formally charged in that case.
Ellerup’s attorney, Robert Macedonio, confirmed that his client was completely shocked upon learning about her husband’s alleged crimes. However, Ellerup inadvertently played a significant role in his arrest, as her DNA, among other evidence, has been linked to the crimes.
The couple married in April 1996 and has resided in Heuermann’s childhood home in Massapequa Park with their daughter and Heuermann’s stepson. Although they had lived in the neighborhood for an extended period, neighbors knew very little about the family. According to the Long Island Press, neighbors described them as distant and their home as creepy. There was no indication of suspicious behavior.
Investigators initially discovered degraded hair at the crime scenes, but early DNA testing did not yield definitive results. Technological advancements later led to a breakthrough. Prosecutors revealed that DNA believed to be Ellerup’s was found on or near the three victims, likely unintentionally transferred by Heuermann on his clothing. The genetic evidence was sourced from 11 bottles found in a garbage can outside the Heuermann residence.
Law enforcement had been monitoring Heuermann and his family for months prior to his arrest, collecting DNA samples from discarded items. Despite Ellerup’s hair being found in proximity to the victims, Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney clarified that both she and their daughter were traveling when the murders occurred. Heuermann was unequivocally in the tri-state area at the time.
Heuermann’s DNA was also linked to a male hair discovered on the burlap sack containing one victim’s remains. Commissioner Harrison stated that Ellerup and her daughter were devastated and appalled upon learning about the crimes, bolstering the belief that they were unaware of Heuermann’s actions. However, further investigation into family and friends is necessary.
CNN reached out to Ellerup and her daughter but has not received any response. Heuermann remains in the Suffolk County correctional facility without bail. He has not had any visitors since his arrest, although he is permitted two phone calls daily.
Heuermann’s next court appearance is scheduled for August 1. As the investigation continues, authorities hope to uncover more information about his alleged double life and whether anyone else was aware of his activities.