At a Glance
- Brandon McCray, 28, was arrested Dec. 31, 2025, for sexual battery, kidnapping, and strangulation
- Heather Asendorf, 56, from Pennsylvania, was found dead on Hollywood Beach the morning after Christmas
- McCray has not been charged with murder; police say the two were “known to one another”
- Why it matters: The case highlights ongoing safety concerns at popular tourist destinations as the investigation continues
A 28-year-old Florida man faces multiple charges including sexual battery and kidnapping in connection with the death of a 56-year-old Pennsylvania woman whose body was discovered on Hollywood Beach.
Arrest and Charges
Brandon Ward McCray was taken into custody on December 31, 2025, according to Broward County court documents reviewed by News Of Losangeles. He faces charges of:
- Sexual battery
- Kidnapping
- Battery
- Battery by strangulation
Notably, McCray has not been charged with murder in connection with Heather Asendorf’s death.
Court records show McCray is currently being held without bond. His next court date is not listed on the Broward County Clerk’s website.
Discovery of the Body
Asendorf’s body was discovered around 7 a.m. on December 26, 2025, by a beach goer walking along Hollywood Beach. The beach is a popular tourist destination in southeastern Florida.
Local authorities pronounced Asendorf dead at the scene. Police confirmed she was from Pennsylvania.
Relationship Between Suspect and Victim
Hollywood Police stated that McCray and Asendorf appear to be “known to one another,” though the nature of their relationship remains unclear.
The investigation remains active, according to police statements provided to Fox 13.
Media Coverage
Multiple news outlets reported on the arrest over the weekend, including:
- Local 10 News
- Fox 13
- Sun Sentinel
News Of Losangeles reached out to the Hollywood Police Department for additional information regarding McCray’s arrest but did not receive an immediate response.
Key Takeaways
- A Pennsylvania woman was found dead on a popular Florida beach the day after Christmas
- A 28-year-old man faces serious charges but not murder in connection with her death
- Police confirm the two individuals knew each other
- The criminal investigation remains ongoing as of the latest updates
