Identification of Murdered Mother and Child Linked to Gilgo Beach Serial Killer Suspicions
Law enforcement agencies in Nassau County, New York, have confirmed the identities of two individuals long suspected to be victims of serial killings in the region, shedding new light on a case that has haunted investigators and the local community for decades. The remains of 26-year-old Tanya Denise Jackson, a U.S. Army veteran, and her two-year-old daughter, Tatiana Marie Dykes, were identified through advanced DNA profiling techniques.
Known colloquially as “Peaches” due to her distinctive heart-shaped peach tattoo, Jackson lived in Brooklyn at the time of her death in 1997. Tatiana, born on March 17, 1995, was tragically a toddler when they were both murdered. Their remains were uncovered 14 years apart at different locations; Jackson’s torso was found in June 1997, while Tatiana’s extremities were discovered in April 2011 during efforts to locate another missing person linked to the Gilgo Beach case.
The discovery of Jackson’s dismembered torso at Hempstead Lake State Park marked the beginning of a complex investigation. Initial findings indicated that the torso had been placed in a container and concealed with garbage bags—a grim tableau that set the stage for decades of speculation surrounding her death. The severed head, arms, and legs were never recovered, leading to challenges in identifying the remains until recent technological advancements in forensic science provided new opportunities.
In 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) joined the investigation, working alongside the Nassau County Police Department. Utilizing innovative DNA testing methods provided by Othram, a private forensic laboratory, the investigation saw renewed focus. In 2022, the FBI compiled a list of potential relatives, eventually confirming the identities of both mother and daughter in early 2024. These findings were made public during a press conference held on April 23, 2025.
Given the timeline and context of the murders, authorities have linked the case to the notorious Gilgo Beach serial killer, whose confirmed victims predominantly included young women engaged in sex work. The main suspect, Rex Heuermann, was arrested in July 2023 and is charged with multiple murders. However, Nassau County Police homicide detective Stephen Fitzpatrick has exercised caution, stating, “We are not discounting the possibility that their cases are unrelated to that investigation.”
Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly emphasized the importance of continuing the investigation to bring justice to both Tanya and Tatiana. During the press conference, she urged anyone with information about Jackson’s life, including her time in the military, to reach out to authorities. The cooperation of the public is deemed critical; a reward of ,000 is being offered for any information leading to an arrest.
The case underscores the dedication of law enforcement to pursue every lead, demonstrating a commitment to justice even in cases that have remained cold for decades. This collaborative effort between state, federal, and private entities showcases a significant advancement in the ability to uncover the truth behind longstanding mysteries, reiterating the belief that, with continued diligence, justice can eventually be served.
As investigators press forward, the need for public assistance remains paramount. Any potential knowledge about the lives of Tanya and Tatiana might not only lead to answers regarding their tragic end but also provide a sense of closure to a grieving community.
