This article is a follow-up to this story from 2024.
A Saline County jury convicted Bryan Reed, 39, of Austin, Arkansas, on multiple charges including two counts of first-degree murder in the May 2024 stabbing deaths of David and Brittany Taylor in East End. Read more below.
Reed was also found guilty of aggravated residential burglary and aggravated assault. The jury recommended life imprisonment for each murder and the burglary charge, six years for aggravated assault, and an additional 20 years for committing the murders in the presence of a child. They also recommended a $15,000 fine. Circuit Judge Ken Casady accepted the recommendations and sentenced Reed accordingly.
According to testimony, Reed entered the Taylors’ home around 10 p.m. on May 4, 2024. His estranged wife and their children had been living with the Taylors at the time, but only the couple and their 14-year-old son were home. The teen, who is now 15, testified he heard yelling and barking dogs before finding his father, David Taylor, unresponsive. He attempted to fight off Reed with a baseball bat before fleeing to a closet and calling 911.
Responding deputies found David and Brittany Taylor dead inside the home from multiple stab wounds. After coaxing, they located the 14-year-old hiding in a locked closet. Reed was arrested within hours, thanks in part to Arkansas State Trooper Tre Davis.
The three-day trial included testimony from the teen, law enforcement, crime lab employees, and family members. Prosecutors emphasized the boy’s 911 call and courtroom testimony in securing the conviction.
“This was a difficult case for them to hear and consider,” said Prosecuting Attorney Chris Walton. “They sent a clear message that violent offenders will not be tolerated in Saline County. I am in awe of the now 15-year-old’s bravery during the entire case, especially regarding his testimony in front of his parents’ killer.”
Reed was previously convicted in Texas for aggravated assault, resisting arrest, possession of marijuana, and DWI.
Reed was represented by attorneys Lee Short and Erin Lewis. The State was represented by Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys Jayme Butts-Hall and Brian Clary.
•
