– Authorities searching for suspect in 1989 robbery and rape at Framingham store
– Law enforcement seeking man wanted in connection with 1989 robbery and sexual assault at Framingham store.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Identified: Man wanted in connection with 1989 robbery and rape in Framingham
FRAMINGHAM, MASS. (WHDH) – After years of investigation, officials have finally publicly identified a man wanted in connection with a heinous crime that occurred in 1989 in Framingham. Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan made the announcement at a press conference, accompanied by local and federal law enforcement officials, urging the public to assist in locating the now 71-year-old suspect.
The incident took place on December 27, 1989, at Hit or Miss, a women’s clothing store located off Route 9 in Framingham. The victims, two female employees aged 18 and 29, were preparing to open the store when a man identified as Stephen Paul Gale entered the premises.
Ryan revealed that Gale approached the women under the guise of needing help selecting an outfit, but then brandished a gun and forced both women to the back of the store. He proceeded to demand money from the 29-year-old manager and coerced the 18-year-old to post a note on the door stating the store would open late.
After securing the cash, Gale led the women to separate rooms where he sexually assaulted them. They managed to escape through a fire door and seek help at a nearby residence. Despite providing descriptions and DNA evidence, authorities were unable to identify Gale until new leads were developed in 2022.
An arrest warrant has now been issued for Gale, who faces charges including aggravated rape, kidnapping, and armed robbery. Standing at six feet tall and weighing around 270 pounds, Gale has used multiple aliases and has ties to cities such as Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and various locations in Texas, Utah, and Florida.
Ryan expressed the bittersweet nature of reconnecting with the victims after so many years, with both women expressing gratitude for the investigative efforts. The Framingham Police Department and Middlesex District Attorney’s Office remain committed to pursuing cold cases like this one.
Framingham Police Chief Lester Baker commended the bravery of the two women who endured the traumatic experience in 1989, while the US Marshals Service announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to Gale’s arrest. Authorities also seek to question Gale about additional assaults in the greater Boston area during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
This story is developing, and updates can be found on 7NEWS both on-air and online.
.
– Identify man wanted in connection with robbery and rape at Framingham store
– Officials search for suspect in 1989 Framingham store robbery and rape.
