Authorities in Florida have made an arrest following the grim discovery of a woman's body on a popular beach the morning after Christmas Day.
A Tragic Discovery on Cleveland Street
Heather Asendorf, a 56-year-old woman from Lemont, Pennsylvania, was found lying on the sand by a passerby at approximately 7am on 26 December. The discovery was made along Cleveland Street in Hollywood, Florida. Emergency services pronounced her dead at the scene.
Detectives quickly suspected foul play, though they have not publicly disclosed the exact cause of Asendorf's death. The investigation indicates she was known to visit the Hollywood Beach area, but police have not confirmed whether she and the subsequently arrested man were acquainted.
Suspect in Custody on Serious Charges
Four days after the discovery, on 30 December, law enforcement took Brandon McCray, 28, into custody with assistance from the US Marshals Fugitive Task Force. He now faces a series of severe charges including sexual battery, kidnapping, battery, and battery by strangulation.
McCray is currently being held at the Broward Main Jail. Jail records show his bond has been set at $770,000. Notably, while he is a suspect in Asendorf's death, he has not yet been formally charged with murder. Hollywood police have indicated to media that additional charges could be forthcoming as the active investigation continues.
Previous Allegations and Sealed Warrant
Court documents reveal McCray has a recent history of violent allegations. In September 2023, he was accused of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after allegedly pulling a gun on a tow truck driver during a vehicle repossession. Pembroke Pines police further reported that he fired shots at two employees during the same confrontation.
Authorities have not released specific details about what evidence ties McCray to Asendorf's case. His arrest warrant remains sealed on the Broward Clerk of Courts website, restricting public access to the probable cause affidavit.
Despite the ongoing nature of the inquiry, police have sought to reassure the local community, emphasising that they believe there is no broader threat to the public. The case continues to be developed by detectives.
