A Saline County jury has convicted Bryan Reed, 39, of Austin, Arkansas, on multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree murder, in connection with the May 2024 stabbing deaths of David and Brittany Taylor in East End.
Reed was also found guilty of aggravated residential burglary and aggravated assault. Following the verdict, the jury recommended life imprisonment for each first-degree murder count and the aggravated residential burglary charge, six years in prison for aggravated assault, and an additional 20 years for committing the murders in the presence of a child. The jury also recommended a $15,000 fine.
Circuit Judge Ken Casady accepted the jury’s recommendations and sentenced Reed accordingly.
Testimony during the three-day trial revealed that Reed entered the Taylors’ home around 10 p.m. on May 4, 2024. At the time, Reed’s estranged wife and their children had been staying at the residence, but only David and Brittany Taylor and their 14-year-old son were home that night.
The teen, who is now 15, testified that he heard yelling and barking dogs before discovering his father unresponsive. He told jurors he attempted to fight off Reed with a baseball bat before fleeing to a closet, where he locked himself inside and called 911.
Responding Saline County deputies found David and Brittany Taylor dead inside the home, each suffering multiple stab wounds. After coaxing, deputies located the teen hiding in a locked closet. Reed was arrested within hours of the attack, with assistance from Arkansas State Trooper Tre Davis.
The trial included testimony from the teenage survivor, law enforcement officers, Arkansas State Crime Laboratory personnel, and family members. Prosecutors highlighted the 911 call placed by the teen and his courtroom testimony as key pieces of evidence leading to the conviction.
“This was a difficult case for them to hear and consider,” said Saline County 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.”
Court records show Reed has prior convictions in Texas, including aggravated assault, resisting arrest, possession of marijuana and driving while intoxicated.
