A disturbing discovery on a popular Florida beach has led to serious criminal charges, though questions still surround what exactly happened.
Authorities say a 56-year-old woman was found dead on Hollywood Beach the morning after Christmas, shocking early-morning walkers and turning a holiday weekend into the focus of an active criminal investigation.
According to reports from Local 10, Fox 13, and the Sun Sentinel, 28-year-old Brandon Ward McCray was arrested days later in connection with the case. Court records from Broward County Clerk of Courts show McCray was taken into custody on December 31, 2025.
McCray is facing multiple felony charges, including sexual battery, kidnapping, battery, and battery by strangulation. Notably, he has not been charged with murder in connection with the woman’s death.
The victim was later identified as Heather Asendorf, 56. Police say her body was discovered around 7 a.m. on December 26 by someone walking along the beach. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities reported that Asendorf was from Pennsylvania.
Investigators have also confirmed that McCray and Asendorf were known to one another, though officials have not disclosed how they were connected or what led them to be together before her death.
In a statement to Fox 13, Hollywood Police Department said the case remains an active criminal investigation. Police have not released additional details about the cause of death or the events leading up to Asendorf being found on the beach.
McCray is currently being held without bond, and as of now, no next court date has been listed.