Identities Revealed: ‘Peaches’ and Her Daughter Linked to Gilgo Beach Case
Long Island – The long-standing mystery surrounding the remains of a woman known as “Peaches” has taken a significant step forward. Nassau County police officially identified the woman as Tanya Denise Jackson, and her daughter as Tatiana Dykes, prompting renewed interest in their tragic case, previously associated with the Gilgo Beach murders.
Details of the Announcement
During a press conference held on a Wednesday morning, Nassau County officials provided updates on the investigation related to the cold case dating back to 1997.
Tanya Jackson, a 26-year-old U.S. Army veteran and single mother, was living in Brooklyn at the time of her disappearance and was believed to be employed at a doctor’s office. Her daughter Tatiana was just two years old when her remains were discovered.
The Backstory of ‘Peaches’
The nickname “Peaches” was derived from a peach tattoo that Jackson had. Her remains were initially found at Hempstead Lake State Park in 1997, with additional body parts located later at Jones Beach in 2011. Tragically, Tatiana’s remains were discovered on Gilgo Beach.
Police presented images of personal items belonging to the pair, including jewelry and a vehicle resembling the one Tanya drove.
Advancements in Investigation
Investigators revealed that Tanya Jackson was originally from Alabama and had connections in Georgia, Texas, and Missouri. The identities of Tanya and Tatiana were established through advancements in DNA technology, facilitated by a collaborative effort among the Nassau police, the District Attorney’s office, and the FBI.
Current Investigative Efforts
Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly commented on the significance of this development: “The reality is our work has just begun. Knowing the identities of the mom and baby is the first step to helping solve the murders. It allows the public to contact us and let us know.”
While the cause of death for both mother and daughter remains undisclosed, investigators are urging anyone who may have known them or served alongside Tanya to come forward with information.
Uncertainty and Continued Investigation
Although there may be a connection to the ongoing Gilgo Beach murder investigations, some sources suggest that this may not be the case, and authorities are exploring all possibilities. Meanwhile, the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office has refrained from commenting on this breakthrough until proceedings involving an unrelated suspect, Rex Heuermann, conclude.