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Summary: Heather Asendorf, 56, a visitor from Pennsylvania, was found dead on Hollywood Beach, Florida, on December 26, 2025, after last being seen dancing at a local bandshell on Christmas Eve. Authorities arrested suspect Brandon Ward McCray, 28, of nearby Hallandale Beach, on December 30, charging him with kidnapping, sexual battery, strangulation, and battery. No homicide charges yet; investigation ongoing.
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HOLLYWOOD, Fla. — A 28-year-old man faces serious charges following the discovery of a Pennsylvania woman's body on a South Florida beach the day after Christmas, authorities said.
Heather Asendorf, 56, who was visiting friends in Hollywood during the holidays, was last spotted alive on Dec. 24, 2025, dancing at the Hollywood Beach Bandshell, according to a longtime acquaintance. The vibrant visitor, often called "Barbie" by friends for her colorful outfits and blonde wigs, had been staying at a nearby hotel.
Two days later, on Dec. 26, a passerby noticed Asendorf's remains on the sand near Cleveland Street around 7 a.m. Police and fire rescue personnel responded promptly and declared her dead at the scene. Investigators quickly determined foul play was involved, though they have not disclosed the cause of death. A sparkly backpack near the body helped confirm her identity, friends said.
The next day, Dec. 27, detectives identified a person of interest, noting that the individual and Asendorf knew each other. Brandon Ward McCray, a Hallandale Beach resident, was taken into custody on Dec. 30 with help from the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force at a home on North 17th Court in Hollywood.
McCray, who weighs about 310 pounds and has distinctive tattoos including "Sophia" and "Stay Humble Hustle Hard," now faces two counts of sexual battery on a victim over 12, kidnapping, battery by strangulation, and simple battery, court records show. A judge set his bond at $770,000 and ordered GPS monitoring if released. He has not been accused of homicide in the case, which remains under active investigation.
Friend Steve Sarsfield, who had known Asendorf for 25 years, recalled her as a kind and joyful person who "did her own dance" and brightened gatherings with her unique style, likening her to a mix of Rainbow Brite and Barbie. He expressed shock at the loss, saying everyone in their circle adored her gentle nature.
Police emphasized there is no ongoing danger to the public and urged anyone with tips to contact them or Broward County Crime Stoppers. McCray has a prior record, including a 2023 aggravated assault charge stemming from an incident where he allegedly fired a gun at workers repossessing his vehicle.
Local residents familiar with the beach area voiced unease over the incident, with some describing it as a rare shadow over the typically lively tourist spot. Authorities continue to probe the circumstances leading to Asendorf's death.
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