Editor’s note: This story has been updated. The latest developments appear at the bottom.
HOLLYWOOD, FL (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2026) — A Coconut Creek man is facing multiple felony charges following a death investigation tied to a woman found on Hollywood Beach late last month.
According to Broward County booking and court records, Brandon Ward McCray, 28, was arrested Dec. 30 in Hollywood after a capias was issued in connection with a criminal investigation handled by Hollywood police.
The arrest stems from a case that began earlier in the week, after a woman was found deceased on the beach near Cleveland Street in Hollywood. Police have said the death is being investigated as a suspected homicide and that foul play is believed to be involved.
McCray was taken into custody at a residence on North 17th Court in Hollywood with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, records show.
Booking documents list McCray as being charged with two counts of sexual battery with a weapon involving a victim over the age of 12, kidnapping to commit or facilitate the commission of a felony, battery by strangulation, and battery.
Court records show both sexual battery charges are listed as no-bond offenses. The kidnapping charge carries a bond set at $250,000, while the battery by strangulation charge lists a $15,000 bond. A misdemeanor battery charge carries a $5,000 bond.
McCray is listed as 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing approximately 310 pounds. Records show a Coconut Creek address and list his place of birth as Detroit, Michigan.
The arrest paperwork identifies the case as originating with the Hollywood Police Department and notes the warrant was confirmed through Broward Sheriff’s Office warrants personnel prior to the arrest.
Hollywood police have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death or how McCray is connected to the investigation. Authorities have said there is no indication of a broader threat to the community. Murder charges are expected to follow.
The case remains under investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Hollywood Police Department or Broward County Crime Stoppers. Tips can be submitted anonymously.
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Update (Feb. 5, 2026, 12:00 p.m. ET):
On Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, a Broward County grand jury indicted Brandon McCray on one count of first-degree murder, two counts of sexual battery, and one count of kidnapping. McCray is being held at the Broward County Jail without bond.
