Ex Blamed In Attack On Sleeping Couple

PALMETTO, FL — A 43-year-old man wanted in connection with a Saturday night attack on a sleeping couple in Palmetto has been arrested in Pinellas County.

According to the Manateee County Sheriff's Office, Leslie Ann Vasquez, 35, and Rick Tatum Jr., 42, were sleeping in a home in the 4400 block of 3rd Avenue West around 11:30 p.m. Feb. 4. Tatum, the sheriff’s office said, woke up to find a man standing over the bed.

The man proceeded to stab Tatum in the side and then began beating Vasquez, an email from the sheriff’s office said. One of the two victims was able to call 911 and the man fled the scene.

The sheriff’s office says the man who attacked the couple has been identified as Vasquez’s ex-boyfriend, Stephen Kelly.

Tatum and Vasquez were both taken to the hospital following the attack. Deputies say their injuries appear to be not life threatening. No further information is being released at this time.

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Photo courtesy of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office