Man Charged in Sexual Assault of Woman Found Dead on Hollywood Beach

A 28-year-old man sits in Broward County Jail facing kidnapping and sexual assault charges connected to a woman whose body was discovered on Hollywood beach the day after Christmas.

Brandon Ward McCray was arrested Tuesday on multiple felony charges in the death of Heather Asendorf, 56, known to friends as “Barbie” for her vibrant, colorful style that stood out along the Hollywood Boardwalk where she was known to spend time.

Asendorf’s body was found by a morning walker near Cleveland Street around 7 a.m. on December 26. The discovery sent shockwaves through the tight-knit beachfront community, where early morning joggers, dog walkers, and fitness enthusiasts regularly traverse the same stretch of sand.

“This is something that just doesn’t happen here,” said Maria Gonzalez, who lives in a nearby condo building and walks the beach daily. “We all knew Barbie. She was part of the community.”

McCray faces two counts of sexual assault on a victim over 12 years of age, one count of kidnapping, one count of battery by strangulation, and one count of simple battery, according to court records. Notably absent from the charges: homicide.

Hollywood Police initially played their cards close to the vest following Asendorf’s death. The day after her body was discovered, investigators announced they had identified a person of interest and revealed “the parties involved are known to one another.”

That connection proved crucial in the investigation. While police haven’t released details about how McCray and Asendorf knew each other, the relationship suggests this wasn’t a random crime against a stranger on the beach.

McCray’s arrest appeared in court records earlier this week, but police didn’t publicly connect him to Asendorf’s case until Monday morning. The delay reflects the careful approach investigators often take in high-profile cases, building their evidence before making public statements.

The charges paint a disturbing picture of Asendorf’s final hours. Sexual assault with a weapon and battery by strangulation are serious felonies that carry significant prison time in Florida. The kidnapping charge suggests Asendorf was moved against her will, though investigators haven’t revealed whether that occurred before she reached the beach or elsewhere.

Hollywood’s beach community remains on edge following the incident. The area near Cleveland Street sits in the heart of the city’s tourism district, just blocks from the famous Hollywood Boardwalk that draws millions of visitors annually. Local business owners worry about the impact on their winter season, traditionally the busiest time for South Florida beaches.

“People come here to feel safe, to relax,” said Tommy Rodriguez, who operates a bike rental shop three blocks from where Asendorf was found. “This kind of thing makes everyone nervous.”

The timing couldn’t be worse for a city trying to maintain its reputation as a family-friendly beach destination. December through March represents peak season for Hollywood’s hospitality industry, with snowbirds and tourists flocking to the area’s hotels, restaurants, and beach activities.

Asendorf’s death also highlights ongoing safety concerns along South Florida’s coastline. While violent crime on beaches remains relatively rare, the isolated nature of early morning hours can create vulnerable situations. Many regular beach walkers have already adjusted their routines, traveling in groups or sticking to more populated areas.

For those who knew Asendorf, the loss goes beyond crime statistics. Friends describe a woman who embraced life despite personal struggles, someone who found joy in simple pleasures like watching sunrises over the Atlantic.

“She had her problems, but she was trying,” said one friend who asked not to be identified. “Nobody deserves what happened to her.”

The investigation continues as prosecutors build their case against McCray. The absence of murder charges could indicate several scenarios: authorities may be waiting for additional evidence, considering plea negotiations, or believe they have stronger cases on the existing charges.

Florida’s sexual assault and kidnapping statutes carry harsh penalties. Sexual assault with a weapon can result in life imprisonment, while kidnapping charges often bring sentences of 25 years or more. Even without a homicide conviction, McCray faces the possibility of spending the rest of his life behind bars.

McCray remains in Broward County Jail without bond. His next court appearance hasn’t been scheduled, though arraignment typically occurs within two weeks of arrest in felony cases.

Hollywood Police continue investigating Asendorf’s death and ask anyone with information to contact detectives at 954-967-4411. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477.

The case serves as a stark reminder that violence can intrude anywhere, even in the seemingly peaceful setting of a South Florida beach at sunrise. For Hollywood’s beachfront community, healing will take time as residents and visitors work to restore their sense of security in a place many consider paradise.

As winter season continues, local law enforcement has increased patrols along the Hollywood Boardwalk and beach areas. The enhanced presence aims to reassure both residents and tourists that their safety remains a top priority despite this tragic incident.