Authorities are meticulously examining a green Chevy Avalanche, seized from the South Carolina property of Rex Heuermann's brother, for potential "trophies" connected to the Gilgo Beach murders. Heuermann, a 59-year-old Manhattan architect, faces charges related to the deaths of three women whose remains were found on Long Island in 2010, and he is the prime suspect in a fourth murder. The vehicle, one of two Avalanches linked to Heuermann, is being searched for personal belongings of the victims, such as phones, clothing, jewelry, identification, and photographs. Investigators are also seeking forensic evidence like DNA.

The search warrant specifically mentions items like black leather belts, leather stamping tools, camouflage burlap, and duct tape, which align with items described in court documents as potentially used to restrain and kill the victims. The green Avalanche was registered to Heuermann's brother, Craig, who resides on a secluded property in Chester, South Carolina. Rex Heuermann also owns several undeveloped plots of land near his brother's home, and a neighbor reportedly stated that Heuermann planned to retire in the area. At the time of his arrest, Heuermann lived with his family in Massapequa Park on Long Island and was apprehended outside his Manhattan office due to concerns about his weapon collection at his Long Island residence. His Massapequa Park home and a storage unit have also been searched. It remains unclear whether authorities will extend their search to his South Carolina properties.

The investigation into the Gilgo Beach murders, which began over a decade ago with the search for missing escort Shannan Gilbert, has led to the discovery of multiple victims, mostly sex workers. Heuermann's alleged connection to the crimes was established through DNA and cellphone data, with court documents suggesting he even contacted a victim's family after her death. The Suffolk County District Attorney has indicated that further charges against Heuermann are possible as the investigation continues, particularly regarding his potential link to Maureen Brainard-Barnes, the first of the "Gilgo Four" victims to disappear.