Netflix Docuseries Details Long Island Serial Killer
The Gilgo Beach murders case has gripped the nation, and now the docuseries “Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer” on Netflix is shedding new light on the chilling events. Liz Garbus, the acclaimed documentarian behind the series, was deeply affected by the case, especially when she learned of Mari Gilbert’s tragic death at the hands of her daughter Sarra during a psychotic break.
Garbus had been working on adapting Robert Kolker’s book “Lost Girls” into a film when Mari’s death occurred. The story revolves around the disappearance of Mari’s daughter, Shannan, who was working as an escort and went missing near Gilgo Beach in 2010. The subsequent investigation uncovered a string of bodies in various states of decomposition, leading to the identification of the first four victims known as the Gilgo Beach murders.
The documentary “Lost Girls,” released in 2020, focused on Mari’s relentless search for Shannan and the other victims. However, it wasn’t until 2023 that an arrest was made in the case. Rex Heuermann, an architect with connections to the victims, was finally apprehended after a task force reopened the investigation.
Garbus felt a responsibility to tell the victims’ stories in “Gone Girls,” highlighting the support network formed by the families and friends of the victims. The series delves into the resilience of these women and the injustices they faced due to law enforcement’s mishandling of the case.
While Heuermann’s arrest marked a significant development in the case, Garbus chose to focus on the victims rather than the perpetrator. She believes that the real stories lie with those who were harmed and their loved ones, rather than the killer.
As the documentary delves into the complexities of the case, Garbus remains committed to supporting the families and ensuring their voices are heard. She plans to be present during Heuermann’s trial and continue to advocate for justice for the victims.
In a saturated true-crime documentary landscape, Garbus stands out for her dedication to quality storytelling and ethical representation. Despite the challenges in the industry, she remains focused on producing impactful documentaries that resonate with audiences.
The future of the “Gone Girls” story remains uncertain, but Garbus is open to revisiting it if new information emerges during the trial. Her commitment to the families and the case is unwavering, and she is determined to see justice served for the victims of the Gilgo Beach murders.
