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11h ago

Judge Admits Whole-Genome DNA Evidence in Gilgo Beach Case in First for New York

The ruling clears the way for whole genome sequencing from an out-of-state lab to be presented in a New York courtroom for the first time.

Crime laboratory officers search the New York home of Gilgo Beach murders suspect Rex Heuermann in 2023.
Alleged serial killer Rex A. Heuermann inside Judge Tim Mazzei's courtroom at Suffolk County Court in Riverhead on July 17, 2025.
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Overview

  • New York State Supreme Court Justice Timothy Mazzei ruled the Astrea Forensics nuclear DNA analysis admissible after months of Frye hearings, a precedent-setting decision in the state.
  • Prosecutors say the whole genome sequencing linked Heuermann or members of his household to hairs found on six of the seven victims, alongside separate mitochondrial and traditional DNA findings.
  • The defense immediately filed a new motion arguing the out-of-state, for‑profit lab’s role violates New York public health law and also moved to sever counts into multiple trials.
  • The court scheduled a Sept. 23 hearing to address the health‑law challenge and severance requests, and a trial date has not yet been set.
  • Investigators contend the DNA is part of a wider case that includes burner phone records, internet activity, electronic device content and a purported planning document; Heuermann has pleaded not guilty to seven murders.