March 26, 2026
Community Mourns Mascotte Mother Killed While Trying to Stop $95 Theft
By Fred Griffin Jr.
Community Mourns Mascotte Mother Killed While Trying to Stop $95 Theft
The community is mourning the loss of Ashley Tyer, a local mother who died after trying to stop a theft at her workplace.
The incident happened on March 16 at Just Stop Tires in Mascotte, where she had worked for seven years.
According to an arrest affidavit, suspect Brandon Lewis had tires replaced at the business before attempting to leave without paying $95 for the service. Investigators say Brandon removed the jacks from the vehicle himself and then backed into an employee.
He then drove forward as Ashley stood in front of the vehicle, trying to stop him from leaving. Brandon struck Ashely, who rolled onto the hood before being thrown from the vehicle. She was placed on life support and died March 21.
Brandon was later spotted in Polk County and pulled over during an investigative traffic stop. According to the arrest report, the passenger-side windshield of the vehicle was cracked. Authorities matched Brandon to surveillance video from the tire shop at the time of the incident.
He was arrested and charged with first-degree vehicular homicide in connection with Ashley’s death.
During a court appearance Tuesday, prosecutors say Brandon has a prior conviction for negligent vehicular homicide in Ohio. The probable cause affidavit also states his Florida driver’s license has been suspended since 2021.
Brandon’s bond was set at $500,000. He remains in custody at the Lake County Jail, with his next court appearance scheduled for April 20.
In the days following Ashley’s death, friends and community members have rallied around her family, calling for justice.
“We believe this decision does not reflect the severity of the crime or the risk to public safety,” a petition started by supporters states.
Those backing the petition say there is strong concern Brandon could be a flight risk and a danger to the community. They are calling on the State Attorney’s Office of Lake County to revoke or deny bond and ensure he remains in custody until trial.
A celebration of life for Ashley will be held April 12 from 1–4pm at Lake David Center in Groveland. Ashley’s family has also started a GoFundMe to help with burial expenses.
Fred Griffin Jr. is a devoted husband, proud father of two daughters and a committed community leader who enjoys traveling. With more than two decades of experience supporting individuals with developmental and mental disabilities, he is deeply passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. He holds advanced credentials in Business Administration, a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Theology.
