Murder Charge in Cold Case of Missing Anna Maria Island Woman

The boyfriend of Sabine Musil-Buehler is facing a second-degree murder charge in the case of the missing business woman, who disappeared four years ago.

William Cumber, 42, was arrested at the Charlotte County Correctional Institute, where he was serving a prison term for violating probation on an arson conviction.

Cumber was transported to Manatee County to face trial in the death of the Haley Motel owner, though her body has never been found. Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube made the announcement at a 3 p.m. press conference, according to the Bradenton Herald.

Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube said that the state attorney believes there is enough evidence for a conviction, which would carry a life sentnece, according to the Bradenton Herald.

Cumber was living with Musil-Buehler on Anna Maria Island at the time of her disappearance. Cumber said that he and Musil-Buehler argued before she disappeared.

The case had several twists and turns early on. Musil-Buehler was reported missing by her estranged husband in 2008, after authorities recovered her stolen car. The suspect in the car theft claimed her had no knowledge of her wherabouts.

A duplex at the hotel she co-owned caught on fire two weeks after Musil-Buehler went missing, putting the focus on Cumber, who has a criminal record that includes arson.