Investigators arrest pregnant woman's boyfriend

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. - Manatee County investigators have arrested the boyfriend of a pregnant woman found dead in her apartment Monday.

According to Manatee County Jail records, the Sheriff's office arrested 26-year-old Bryan Stanford Monday for aggravated battery. Detectives also want to speak with Stanford about the death of Myslene Gabriel. They believe he was the last person to see 25-year-old Myslene Gabriel alive.

Spokesperson Dave Bristow said last week Gabriel called 911 after Stanford allegedly hit her.  "We want to talk to him regarding the incident that took place either last night or early this morning, but we have enough to arrest him on the domestic violence incident," said Bristow.

Friends and relatives are devastated. Friend Tony Clermont told reporters Gabriel was like a kid sister to him and couldn't harm a soul if she wanted.  Not only was she a sweet girl, he said, but she was physically very petite.  "She was four-months pregnant! This is messed up, this is messed up," said Clermont.

Investigators also said one of Gabriel's two children was locked in the apartment bedroom when they found Gabriel's body, and may have been present the entire time. The child is ok and with relatives.

If you have any information about this homicide you're urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS.