BRANDON RICHARD BARNES | Serial Strangler Husband Accused of Throttling and Incinerating Jessica Barnes Had Secret Child, Sexual Relationships With Couple’s Roommates | All Charged in the Tangled Murder Scheme | ALS

Brandon richard Barnes. Autographed Letter, Signed. Handwritten, Commercial #10 (4.125 × 9.5 envelope). Greenville, SC. April 17, 2025. Content unknown. SEALED.

In the small town of Pendleton, South Carolina, the disappearance of 20-year-old Jessica Barnes in August 2024 led to a chilling revelation. Her husband, Brandon Barnes, was found to have strangled her to death, with the assistance of their two roommates, Kendall Mims and Victoria Tippett, in concealing the crime. The case unveiled a web of deceit, including Brandon's simultaneous relationships with both roommates and a secret child. This narrative delves into the intricate details of the crime, the ensuing investigation, and the profound impact on the community.​

The Tangled Web: The Murder of Jessica Barnes

Basic Information:

Brandon Richard Barnes, born in 2003 in South Carolina, is currently incarcerated at the Anderson County Detention Center, awaiting trial for the murder of his wife, Jessica Barnes. His criminal record includes charges of murder, accessory after the fact, obstruction of justice, and misprision of a felony.​

Background:

Brandon Barnes grew up in South Carolina, though specific details about his early life, education, and employment history remain sparse. He entered into a relationship with Jessica Barnes approximately 18 months before her death. During this time, he was also involved with Kendall Mims, with whom he fathered a child. Brandon deceived Jessica by claiming Kendall was his sister and their child was his niece. He also maintained a relationship with their other roommate, Victoria Tippett, and had applied for a marriage license with her before marrying Jessica in January 2024.

Criminal Activity:

On August 2, 2024, following a confrontation where Jessica discovered Brandon and Tippett in a compromising situation, Brandon strangled Jessica to death in their Pendleton residence. Tippett witnessed the murder, and both she and Mims assisted Brandon in disposing of Jessica's body in a wooded area in Pickens County. Jessica's remains were discovered on September 20, 2024, and identified on October 1, 2024.

Legal Proceedings:

Brandon Barnes was arrested on October 2, 2024, by the Pendleton Police Department, with assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. He was charged with murder. Mims and Tippett were charged with accessory after the fact, obstruction of justice, and misprision of a felony. All three suspects were denied bond and are currently awaiting further court proceedings.​

Impact on Victims and Society:

Jessica Barnes' death had a profound impact on her family and the Pendleton community. Her mother, Cecilia Varvara, reported her missing after receiving suspicious text messages, which she believed were not from Jessica. The case garnered significant media attention, highlighting issues of domestic violence and the importance of thorough investigations in missing person cases. A GoFundMe page was established to support Jessica's family during this difficult time.​

Current Status:

Brandon Barnes remains incarcerated at the Anderson County Detention Center, with no bond granted. There is no information indicating any rehabilitation efforts at this time. Given the severity of the crime and the deceit involved, concerns about future risks to society persist.​

Conclusion:

The tragic murder of Jessica Barnes underscores the complexities of domestic relationships and the potential for hidden abuse. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, open communication, and the need for support systems for those in potentially harmful situations. The case also highlights the role of community and law enforcement in uncovering the truth and seeking justice for victims.

Additional Note:

Given the notoriety of this case, any autographed items by Brandon Barnes would be considered rare and potentially valuable to collectors of true crime memorabilia.

VIDEO: Husband Strangled His Wife, Then Hid Her Body with Roommates' Help: Cops | https://youtu.be/o1TCm70YHuQ

Archiving Protocol:

• Handled with White Gloves ab initio

• Photo Pages/Sheet Protectors: Heavyweight Clear Sheet Protectors, Acid Free & Archival Safe, 8.5 × 11, Top Load

• White Backing Board – Acid Free

Shipping/Packaging: Rigid Mailer 9.5 × 12.5. White, self-seal, stay-flat, Kraft cardboard, no bend. Each rigid mailer is made of heavy cardboard, which has strong resistance to bending and tearing. Thicker that the USPS mailers. Shipping cost never more than it absolutely has to be to get it from me to you.