A neighbor who has lived next door to accused Long Island serial killer Rex Heuermann for nearly three decades has come forward with chilling encounters and unsettling behavior that left his wife feeling uncomfortable.
Etienne Devilliers recounted an incident where Heuermann would leer over the fence at his wife while she sunbathed in their backyard. Devilliers, a former New York City firefighter, confronted Heuermann about his behavior, and it ceased after their conversation. Devilliers described Heuermann as strange and odd, with a messy house that made people avoid it. Heuermann attempted to befriend other neighbors, but Devilliers kept his distance.
The 59-year-old Manhattan architect was arrested last week for the murders of sex workers Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Costello, whose bodies were discovered on Gilgo Beach in 2010.
Prosecutors also suspect Heuermann in the slaying of a fourth victim, Maureen Brainard-Barnes. Devilliers expressed surprise at the accusations, stating that while Heuermann was strange, he did not come across as particularly aggressive. Devilliers did mention that Heuermann had an extensive collection of over 200 guns in his home, which he discovered years ago when he saw a large box being carried in.
Devilliers revealed that he was familiar with Heuermann's second wife and their two children. He described the wife as odd and reserved, while the son, who has special needs, recently got his first dog, bringing him joy. Devilliers expressed sympathy for the children, as they were often used for manual labor around the house.
Since Heuermann's arrest, the neighborhood has been inundated with reporters and others interested in the case, turning the usually quiet area into a "madhouse." Devilliers and his neighbors are in shock over the news that a suspected mass murderer had been living among them for years.
The neighborhood's reaction to Heuermann's arrest reflects the shock and disbelief that such a horrific crime could occur in their close-knit community. Devilliers emphasized that the neighborhood is filled with wonderful people, including many police officers and firefighters, which has always made them feel safe. The news of Heuermann's alleged crimes has shattered their sense of security.
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