The case that detectives built against Ashley McArthur for the September 2017 murder of her friend, Taylor Wright, was largely based on circumstantial evidence. Despite the Pensacola, Florida resident maintaining her innocence and insisting that there was no concrete proof linking her to the crime, several individuals testified against her. Among them was Brandon Beatty, who identified himself as Ashley’s boyfriend at the time. His testimony is featured in NBC’s ‘Dateline: The Necklace.’ It played a key role in shedding light on Ashley’s possible motives and became a crucial part of the prosecution’s case.
Brandon Beatty Testified Against Ashley McArthur at Her Trial
Brandon Beatty became a key figure in the Taylor Wright murder investigation once police uncovered his connection to Ashley McArthur. While authorities were aware that Ashley had withdrawn a significant amount of money from the joint account she shared with Taylor, they were initially unsure of how it had been spent. Their investigation revealed that Ashley had been involved in an affair with Brandon, an electrician living in Pensacola, Florida. Prosecutors alleged that Ashley used much of the stolen money to buy him expensive gifts. During Ashley’s 2019 trial, Brandon confirmed their romantic relationship and testified that she had discussed a plan to kill Taylor. His statements, along with other witness testimonies, proved to be critical in securing the conviction.
Brandon Beatty is Running His Own Bar Today
Brandon Beatty appears to be doing well both personally and professionally. He is the proud owner of The Baron Bar in Pensacola, Florida, a business he has been steadily growing and improving over the years. What started as a dream has gradually taken shape, thanks to his patience, hard work, and the support of his family and local community. In December 2024, he expanded the bar by adding a designated smoking and outdoor seating area and has expressed plans to continue enhancing the space further. Previously, Brandon also reportedly owned Stix Billiard Hall on Detroit Boulevard in Pensacola, where he hosted billiards tournaments. Given his continued involvement, it’s clear he remains passionate about the game and well-connected within that circle. He has also expressed his desire to soon inculcate his passion for the sport in his business.
Outside of work, Brandon is a devoted father to two daughters, whom he often refers to as the center of his world. His eldest, Brynna Beatty, finished her high school in 2022 and he was immensely proud of her. While he hasn’t publicly clarified his relationship status, he appears focused on his role as a father and business owner. His public presence, along with community events tied to his bar, reflects a life full of purpose, progress, and stability. Overall, despite the public attention during the Taylor Wright case years ago, Brandon seems to have rebuilt and redirected his life differently.
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