Tragedy on Hollywood Beach Sparks Arrest
Hollywood, FL — Authorities have taken a 28-year-old Florida man into custody after the body of a woman was discovered on Hollywood Beach the day after Christmas, officials confirmed Monday. The suspect now faces serious felony charges in connection with the woman’s death, which has shocked the local community.
The victim, identified as 56-year-old Heather Asendorf, was found unresponsive on the sand near Cleveland Street around 7 a.m. on December 26, when a passerby alerted police. First responders pronounced her dead at the scene, and investigators quickly determined there were signs of foul play.
Suspect Charged With Multiple Felonies
Police and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force arrested Brandon Ward McCray on December 30 at his home on North 17th Court in Hollywood, Broward County authorities said. McCray, 28, is being held in the Broward Main Jail on a $770,000 bond.
He is accused of sexual battery, kidnapping, battery and battery by strangulation related to Asendorf’s death. Law enforcement has not released details about the evidence linking McCray to the crime, and an active investigation is underway as more charges could be filed.
Community Safety and Next Steps
Hollywood police emphasized that, despite the severity of the charges, there’s no indication of a broader threat to residents or visitors at this time. Authorities continue to gather evidence and urge anyone with additional information to come forward.
As the investigation progresses, officials hope to clarify what led to the woman’s death and any motive behind the alleged attack.
