Long Island Cold Case: Tanya Jackson and Tatiana Marie Identified, May Be Unrelated to Gilgo Killer

Identification of Long Island Cold Case Victims

• 📌 Decades after the discovery of a woman and her child's remains in 1997, they have been identified as Tanya Denise Jackson, 26, and her 2-year-old daughter, Tatiana Marie.
• 🔍 The remains were found in Hempstead Lake State Park, with the mother's skull later discovered near Jones Beach.

Potential Disconnection from Gilgo Beach Murders

• ⚠️ Investigators believe the deaths of Tanya and Tatiana may not be connected to the accused Gilgo Beach serial killer, Rex Heuermann.
• ⚖️ While timing and location initially suggested a link, authorities are exploring the possibility that these cases are unrelated to the Heuermann investigation.

Investigative Techniques and Leads

• 🔬 The identification was made possible through new forensic genealogy techniques and collaboration between the FBI, Nassau, and SUFFK police departments.
• 🚗 Police are seeking information about Tanya's vehicle, a 1991 black Geo Storm, and jewelry she may have worn.
• 💰 A $25,000 reward is offered for information leading to an arrest.

Victim Background and Family

• 🎖️ Tanya Denise Jackson was an Army veteran who was living in Brooklyn at the time of her death.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 The father of Tatiana Marie has been identified and is reportedly cooperative with the investigation.
• 🕊️ The remains of Tanya and Tatiana were recently buried in Alabama, providing some closure after 27 years.

Legal Proceedings

• 🤐 Rex Heuermann has pleaded not guilty to seven killings.
• 🗣️ Both Rex Heuermann's defense team and SUFFOLK County prosecutors declined to comment on the new identifications.