Maureen Brainard-Barnes disappeared in 2007 when she was 25 years old. Her body was found three years later.
Accused Gilgo Beach killer Rex Heuermann is facing charges in the murder of a fourth woman whose body was found 14 years ago on a desolate Long Island beach.
Heuermann was back in court Tuesday accused of killing escort Maureen Brainard-Barnes, who disappeared in 2007 when she was 25 years old.
Brainard-Barnes’ sister and daughter broke down after the hearing.
“Maureen was the mother of two amazing children and we will forever be without their mother,” the victim’s sister said.
Nicolette was 7 years old when her mother was murdered.
“There were countless times I needed her and she was not there. I remember she read to me every night and now I can no longer remember the sound of her voice,” Nicolette said.
Brainard-Barnes’ body was the first to be found buried on Long Island's Gilgo Beach in 2010, triggering a 13-year serial killer investigation.
According to newly released court documents, DNA from a strand of hair belonging to Heuermann’s wife was found on a belt buckle used to restrain Brainard-Barnes.
Heuermann’s wife, who showed up in court Tuesday for the hearing, was out of town when Brainard-Barnes disappeared in 2007 and is not linked in any way to the crime.
A total of 11 victims have been discovered on Gilgo Beach and prosecutors say that there may be more charges against Heuermann. “There should be no mistake. The work of the grand jury is continuing. We’re going to let that investigation play out,” Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney said.
Heuermann has pleaded not guilty.
“He’s dealing with it on a daily basis one day at a time but he’s looking forward to having his day in a courtroom,” defense attorney Michael J. Brown said.
