Prosecutors investigating the suspected Gilgo Beach serial killings say accused murderer Rex Heuermann kept a disturbing “planning document” detailing how to carry out killings, avoid detection, and clean up crime scenes.
The allegations surfaced after Heuermann was indicted on two additional murder charges connected to the deaths of Sandra Costilla in 1993 and Jessica Taylor in 2003, expanding the New York architect’s case to six murder accusations in total.
Authorities say the alleged document was recovered through digital evidence tied to Heuermann and contained detailed notes investigators believe were used to organize and plan the killings.
According to the indictment, the files included lists, reminders, and categorized notes referencing possible forensic evidence, weapons, cleanup methods, and victim selection.
One section reportedly included columns labeled “Problems,” “Supplies,” “DS,” and “TRG.” Under “Problems,” investigators say the document referenced concerns such as DNA, fingerprints, hair fibers, and blood stains.
Another section allegedly listed items including cutting tools, acid, a burn can, and a police scanner under “Supplies.”
Perhaps most disturbing to investigators was a note under the “TRG” section allegedly stating that “small is good,” which prosecutors claim is significant because many of the alleged victims were petite women.
Authorities also revealed portions of what they described as reminders written by Heuermann, including statements such as “get sleep before hunt” and notes suggesting future attacks should “hit harder” and target the neck more effectively.
Investigators believe the writings demonstrate what they called a “methodical” effort to plan murders while minimizing evidence left behind.
The indictment further alleges the document referenced maximizing “play time” while using materials like drop cloths to reduce noise. Prosecutors believe those comments may refer to sexual violence and mutilation allegedly inflicted on victims.
Heuermann, a Manhattan architect from Massapequa Park, New York, was first arrested in July 2023 in connection with several killings linked to the long-unsolved Gilgo Beach murders.
He had previously been charged in the deaths of Megan Waterman, Melissa Barthelemy, Amber Costello, and Maureen Brainard-Barnes — women whose remains were discovered along Long Island’s Gilgo Beach area beginning in 2010.
Authorities say evidence tying Heuermann to the killings includes DNA analysis, cellphone data, internet search history, and digital materials allegedly connected to violent pornography resembling aspects of the crimes.
Heuermann has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.
