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Trial Continues for Brandon Isabelle in Murder Case

A still of a courtroom with lawyers and jurors during the Brandon Isabelle trial

Memphis, TN, September 30, 2025

News Summary

The ongoing murder trial of Brandon Isabelle focuses on the deaths of his 2-day-old daughter, Kennedy Hoyle, and her mother, Danielle Hoyle. Testimonies and evidence presented include text messages, tracking data, and witness statements. The prosecution contends that Isabelle’s actions during a crucial time lead to the tragic events, raising questions about his previous relationships and state of mind. Key evidence includes his confession and the discovery of an abandoned car seat matching that used by Kennedy. The community remains attentive as the trial unfolds.

Memphis, TN โ€“ The murder trial of Brandon Isabelle, accused of killing his 2-day-old daughter, Kennedy Hoyle, and her mother, Danielle Hoyle, is continuing as the state called its final witnesses on the sixth day of proceedings. The trial is focused on evidence presented regarding the tragic events that transpired in early February 2022.

On Thursday, Sgt. Jacoba Boyd of the Memphis Police Department took the stand to discuss his involvement as a homicide detective in the investigation. During the investigation, text messages exchanged between Isabelle and his girlfriend, Artesha, were examined, revealing Isabelle’s uncertainty regarding his paternity.

Isabelle communicated feelings of remorse and affection for Artesha while anticipating Danielle’s labor, adding a complicated emotional layer to the case. Danielle Hoyle gave birth to Kennedy on January 31, 2022, but the situation turned tragic as Danielle was later discovered dead and Kennedy was missing.

Investigators quickly identified Isabelle as a suspect after learning that Danielle was scheduled to meet him on February 1, 2022. The trial has seen evidence demonstrating that Isabelle was tracked to a location near where Danielle’s body was recovered around the time of the alleged murder. Key developments in the case include Isabelle’s eventual confession to shooting Danielle and his admission of discarding Kennedyโ€™s body in the Mississippi River.

The prosecution highlighted several factors that complicated the search for Kennedy, including a significant ice storm that affected visibility and conditions. Additionally, vehicle and phone tracking evidence illustrated Isabelle’s movements during the time of the crime, supporting the state’s case against him.

Isabelle’s phone records displayed patterns of usage that aligned with locations associated with the events in question. Communications revealed rising tensions in Isabelleโ€™s relationships with both Danielle and Artesha leading up to the incident.

Further investigation turned up an abandoned car seat matching the one used by Kennedy, adding concrete physical evidence to the mix. Testimonies included details about Isabelle’s forthcoming demeanor during interviews, even as his statements contained inconsistencies regarding the series of events surrounding the murder.

The judge presiding over the case acknowledged that there was sufficient evidence to continue with the trial and scheduled additional witness testimonies for the following day. The unfolding case has kept the community in suspense as both the prosecution and defense present their arguments regarding the tragic events of early 2022.

FAQ

What is the trial of Brandon Isabelle about?

The trial is focused on the murder accusations against Brandon Isabelle for the deaths of his 2-day-old daughter, Kennedy Hoyle, and her mother, Danielle Hoyle.

What evidence has been presented in the trial?

Evidence includes text messages, vehicle and phone tracking data, witness testimonies, and an abandoned car seat matching the one used by Kennedy.

What significant events occurred surrounding the murders?

Danielle Hoyle gave birth to Kennedy on January 31, 2022, and was later discovered dead, with Isabelle being identified as a suspect shortly after he was scheduled to meet Danielle.

When did the incidents take place?

The events surrounding the murders took place between January 31, 2022, and February 1, 2022.

Key Features of the Trial

Feature Description
Accused Brandon Isabelle
Victims 2-day-old Kennedy Hoyle and her mother, Danielle Hoyle
Trial Duration Ongoing, currently in the sixth day
Key Witnesses Police Sergeant, various investigators
Crucial Evidence Text messages, phone and vehicle tracking, abandoned car seat
Incidents Timeline Events occurred between January 31 and February 1, 2022

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER

The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโ€”with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.

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