A challenging task lies ahead for an unnamed real estate agent in Long Island. They are tasked with selling a property once owned by alleged serial killer Rex Heuermann, known for his involvement in multiple women’s tragedies since the 90s. His family, including his wife and adult children, is shifting base, leaving speculation rife in and around the neighborhood about the future buyer or the fate of the infamous property. The house has garnered attention due to its association with Heuermann, believed to be the unidentified murderer ‘LISK’ from the true-crime book, Lost Girls: An American Unsolved Mystery authored by Robert Kolker in 2013.
Investigative research and forensic analysis indicate that a single murderer, now believed to be Heuermann, was the cause of demise for at least ten women whose bodies were discovered around the region. The mystery, which had remained unresolved for an extended period, saw a breakthrough in 2023. Advanced DNA testing combined with mobile and credit card data helped local law enforcement connect Heuermann to some of these cases. Heuermann, a 60-year-old professional architect was an ordinary man leading an unusual life, with his basement reportedly filled with weapons and gruesomely detailed guides on tormenting and taking lives.
Heuermann is persistent in declaring his innocence, denying charges for deaths going back as far as the year 1993. His spouse Asa Ellerup is standing by his side despite the mounting evidence against her husband. She explicitly expressed her disbelief in the charges against Heuermann, unveiling her opinion that he is innocent. Regardless, the duo’s adult children have decided to move on, accepting the change that’s to come.
Disturbed by the repeated disruptions due to a series of police raids, Ellerup has decided to relinquish her home of three decades and seek a fresh start in South Carolina. She reportedly believes that the relocation will instigate the process of healing for her family. Heuermann’s association with the house extends back to his childhood days, even before Ellerup had moved in.
The house, situated in a suburban neighborhood, had seen better days as it stands largely neglected in recent years. Neighbors reported that the house accurately mirrored its owner’s conflicted character. According to them, Heuermann, always appearing to be groomed and suave, maintained an oddly unattended house, giving it an eerie appearance. Subsequently, the house’s condition has not seen any improvement.
Since Heuermann’s crimes became public knowledge in 2023, the house has been the center of undesirable attention with a surge of curious visitors and true-crime enthusiasts from far and wide. In addition, it continues to be the subject of regular police searches for additional incriminating evidence associated with the case. The house was transferred to Ellerup’s name for no cost just months after she filed for a legal separation from Heuermann.
The house, estimated to be worth $530,000 at the time of transition, became the focal point of the couple’s divorce proceedings. Ellerup’s legal representative explained the move as a precautionary step towards shielding her from potential financial liabilities in the event of lawsuits from affected families of Heuermann’s assumed victims. The divorce is anticipated to be legally finalized within a span of six months, marking the property free for sale.
As things currently stand, the court date for Heuermann’s trial is yet to be decided. Given the case’s high-profile nature, during a preliminary hearing in October, there were suggestions that the trial may be scheduled for the upcoming December 17 court session. However, Heuermann’s defense lawyer insists on changing the trial venue, citing the need for an unbiased jury unswayed by local sentiments.