A Clermont man was found guilty of first-degree murder Thursday evening in a 2023 case regarding the death of a senior victim.
Jurors delivered their verdict in the murder case of 91-year-old John Taylor. After a brief deliberation of the evidence presented and expert testimony by Florida Department of Law Enforcement analysts, jurors found 46-year-old Bryan Matthew Hamill guilty of first-degree murder and grand theft motor vehicle.
“Our hearts go out to the victim’s family as they continue to grieve this devastating loss,” said Walter Forgie, Chief Assistant State Attorney. “The verdict in this case reflects the gravity of this senseless and violent act that claimed an innocent life. It also serves as a powerful reminder that such crimes will be met with justice.”
On Feb. 15, 2023, Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to a home off Starwood Lane in Clermont regarding a fall. Upon arrival, EMS personnel were treating a patient, later determined to be the victim, John Taylor, who had a large injury to the top of his head – consistent with being struck. The victim was found by a caregiver on the floor of his bedroom in a pool of blood. The victim was in critical condition and would later succumb to his injuries.
Officials learned that the elderly victim had two roommates who resided in the home with him, 36-year-old Brandi Dale and Hamill. It was also noticed that the victim’s vehicle was no longer in the driveway of the home. Investigators immediately began their search for the victim’s vehicle…