eBay Listing: Heuermann’s Vehicles Spark Debate

Ellerup’s auction of Rex Heuermann’s vintage vehicles on eBay spirals into a whirlwind of intrigue amid the Gilgo Beach murder investigation.

At a Glance

  • Asa Ellerup lists Rex Heuermann’s vintage Jeep and trailer on eBay, post-divorce from the accused serial killer.
  • eBay removed the listing, citing its policy against glorifying violence.
  • Heuermann, accused of seven murders, pleaded not guilty, captivating global interest and sparking a documentary series by Peacock.
  • ‘Murderabilia’ market thrives with Heuermann-related items, attracting significant bids.

A Market for the Morbid

Asa Ellerup, former wife of alleged serial killer Rex Heuermann, set things ablaze by listing his 1972 Jeep AMC and a 1963 trailer on eBay. This auction, meant to sever past ties, brimmed with sinister allure, attracting crime enthusiasts and bids alike. The sale of objects linked with high-profile crimes reflects a baffling culture where ‘murderabilia’ thrives, despite eBay’s swift removal citing policy violations against glorifying violence.

The phenomenon backfired, highlighting society’s provocative fixation with killer memorabilia. Both Jeep and trailer, with 522,465 miles and additional accessories, ignited a bidding frenzy. Interested buyers pushed the price to $7,600 before eBay yanked the auction. Ellerup’s bold move stirs a debate on ethical boundaries blurred by profit motives in the wake of heinous crimes.

The Man Behind the Mystery

Rex Heuermann’s name struck infamy with the Gilgo Beach murders—a chilling saga of seven women over a grueling 30 years. The murky tide deepened when he was charged in 2023 for murdering Amber Lynn Costello, Megan Waterman, Melissa Barthelemy, and later, Maureen Brainard-Barnes. Despite not guilty pleas, public and media fascination swelled, fueled by a rich narrative bleeding into pop culture.

“I would need to hear it from Rex, face-to-face, for me to believe he killed these girls.” – Asa Ellerup.

Heuermann’s arrest not only spun legal battles but informed documentaries capturing the family’s emotional upheaval. NBC/Peacock’s series sheds light through interviews with Ellerup and her daughter. Victoria Heuermann leans towards suspecting her father’s guilt, adding another layer to this complex human story.

Never-before-seen photos show Rex Heuermann around the time of the Gilgo Beach killings

The Curse of ‘Murderabilia’

This fascination with crime collects a morbid diet, transformed into hefty price tags on eBay and similar. Andy Kahan, familiar with the market, notes, “I’ve been dealing with the ‘murderabilia’ industry for over 20-some odd years…” This sordid corner of commerce thrives on notoriety, distorting tragedies into collectible phenomena.

While eBay enforces policies against promoting violence, underground markets remain lucrative. This raises questions about consumer ethics and boundaries as public fascination with grim histories flourishes unabated.

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