Crime Stories with Nancy Grace
Episode: Judge Sets Rex Heuermann Trial Date Two Years in the Making: "Come Hell or High Water" | Crime Alert 6AM 01.23.26
Release Date: January 23, 2026
Host: Nancy Grace (iHeartPodcasts and CrimeOnline)
Episode Overview
In this Crime Alert edition, the episode centers on major developments in the case against alleged serial killer Rex Heuermann. Highlighting a judge’s frustration over prolonged legal delays, the episode also updates listeners on a Port Authority police officer-involved murder-suicide in New York and the ongoing case of missing Arizona woman Isabella Comas. The focus is fast-paced, emphasizing the legal wrangling in the Heuermann case, sharp investigative updates, and alarming recent crimes.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. Rex Heuermann Case: Legal Delays and Judge's Ultimatum
- Judge Mazai’s Frustration & Determination
- The trial has been dragging on for over two years due to repeated legal challenges, primarily from Heuermann’s lawyer, Michael Brown, who’s contesting the validity of 20 search warrants.
- Judge Tim Mazai has drawn a hard line, stating unequivocally that the trial will proceed after Labor Day "come hell or high water."
Quote:- “The trial will begin after Labor Day, come hell or high water. Okay, Judge. That's a promise, right?” (00:57)
- Main Pieces of Evidence Under Scrutiny
- Pizza Crust DNA:
- Heuermann’s defense objects to the DNA evidence gathered from a discarded pizza crust, arguing it violates his right to privacy.
- Expert commentary: Once an item is discarded in the trash, legal precedent asserts privacy is forfeited—reminding listeners of a similar, failed argument from another high-profile case (Kohberger).
Quote:
- “By discarding an item, you are essentially giving up any rights associated with the item.” (01:19)
- Expert commentary: Once an item is discarded in the trash, legal precedent asserts privacy is forfeited—reminding listeners of a similar, failed argument from another high-profile case (Kohberger).
Quote:
- Heuermann’s defense objects to the DNA evidence gathered from a discarded pizza crust, arguing it violates his right to privacy.
- The Sandra Castillo Hair Evidence:
- Brown is also attacking the sole forensic evidence (a single hair) linking Heuermann to victim Sandra Castillo’s 1993 murder, arguing it’s insufficient for an indictment.
- Pizza Crust DNA:
- Defense Strategy: Introducing an Alternate Suspect
- The defense aims to redirect suspicion to convicted serial killer John Bitrolf, known for murdering at least two women found in close proximity to the Heuermann case victims.
- Gruesome details about Bitrolf: Bitrolf was known for violent, ritualistic acts and was previously a suspect in the Long Island serial killings, with two victims found just three miles from Bitrolf’s home.
- DNA testing has already excluded Heuermann from Bitrolf’s cases, and Bitrolf remains incarcerated.
Quote:
- “Friends of Bitrolf claimed he once cut the heart out of a deer he shot and ate it raw.” (02:08)
- The defense aims to redirect suspicion to convicted serial killer John Bitrolf, known for murdering at least two women found in close proximity to the Heuermann case victims.
2. Prosecutorial Stance and Family Reactions
- District Attorney Ray Tierney’s Position:
- Tierney aligned with Judge Mazai’s desire to move forward, stating his office is ready for trial and is not responsible for the procedural delays.
- He diplomatically acknowledges the defense’s legal maneuvering as part of the process but refuses comment on any talk of a plea deal.
Quote:
- “He can’t blame Brown for his strategy…The motions filed come with the nature of the business.” (03:13)
- He diplomatically acknowledges the defense’s legal maneuvering as part of the process but refuses comment on any talk of a plea deal.
Quote:
- Tierney aligned with Judge Mazai’s desire to move forward, stating his office is ready for trial and is not responsible for the procedural delays.
- Heuermann Family Update:
- The accused’s family did not attend the latest hearing but issued a neutral statement expressing hope for a resolution.
- Heuermann’s Stance:
- Continues to maintain innocence since his arrest in 2023—three decades since the earliest alleged murder.
3. Upcoming Milestones
- Heuermann’s next court appearance is set for March 1, to argue current motions.
Other Crime Alerts Covered
4. New York Port Authority Officer Murder-Suicide (04:07)
- Incident Recap
- Veteran officer fatally shot his sister and wounded their mother before taking his own life.
- Police Findings:
- The shooter was found in a hallway with his service weapon and badge; his sister and mother discovered in separate rooms.
- Community Reaction:
- Neighbor Jane Burbank described the family as warm and engaged with the community.
Quote:
- “She loved to dance. She loved to get people together. She loved to cook. She loved to travel and was looking forward to her retirement so she could travel more.” (05:28)
- Neighbor Jane Burbank described the family as warm and engaged with the community.
Quote:
5. Disappearance of Isabella Comas in Arizona (05:35)
- Key Facts
- Isabella Comas went missing on January 11 after leaving a friend’s house.
- Her car was found blood-stained, missing the trunk lining and passenger seat; blood evidence and suspicious items (gas canisters, trash cans, tarp) were present.
- Suspect & Police Investigation
- Boyfriend Tommy Rodriguez arrested for theft and damage to the vehicle, not for the disappearance.
- He’s a convicted murderer with a pattern of violent behavior.
- Missing Person Alert
- Physical description and last known attire given; listeners urged to call in tips.
Quote:
- “Anyone with information regarding Comas’ whereabouts is asked to call the Avondale Police Department.” (06:27)
- Physical description and last known attire given; listeners urged to call in tips.
Quote:
Notable Quotes & Timestamps
- On the Heuermann Trial Start
- Judge Mazai: “The trial will begin after Labor Day, come hell or high water.” (00:57)
- Expert on Trash DNA Evidence
- “By discarding an item, you are essentially giving up any rights associated with the item.” (01:19)
- On Violent Suspect History
- “Friends of Bitrolf claimed he once cut the heart out of a deer he shot and ate it raw.” (02:08)
- DA Tierney on Defense Motions
- “The motions filed come with the nature of the business.” (03:13)
- Neighbor on Murder Victim’s Personality
- “She loved to dance. She loved to get people together. She loved to cook. She loved to travel and was looking forward to her retirement so she could travel more.” (05:28)
Episode Structure & Flow
- 00:33–03:40 — Detailed breakdown of the Rex Heuermann status hearing and legal maneuvering.
- 04:07–05:40 — Brief but poignant coverage of the Port Authority police-involved murder-suicide.
- 05:35–06:27 — Rapid update and call to action in the missing persons case of Isabella Comas.
- 06:27–End — Quick news wrap-up and reminder for further engagement.
Summary
This Crime Alert episode is dense with developments on high-profile cases, especially the mounting impatience in the court system over Rex Heuermann’s pending trial. Listeners get up-to-the-minute information, legal strategies, and vivid community reaction, all delivered in a brisk, essential format that favors facts, procedural clarity, and sharp soundbites. Nancy Grace’s team maintains a focused, urgent tone throughout, reflecting the seriousness of the crimes and the gravity of looming judicial actions.