Massachusetts Man Allegedly Robbed a Store for Scratch Tickets Using a Fake Gun

RAYNHAM (WBSM) — A Raynham man was arrested Monday for allegedly robbing a local convenience store over the weekend armed with a lighter that looked like a firearm.

Armed Robbery Reported at Broadway Quick Stop

According to Raynham Police, officers responded at about 12:44 p.m. on Sunday, May 17 to a report of an armed robbery at the Quick Stop convenience store located at 343 Broadway.

The suspect allegedly approached the counter and asked for several $50 scratch tickets. He then placed what appeared to be a handgun on the counter and threatened the clerk before fleeing the store with the lottery tickets on an electric bicycle.

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Replica Firearm Discovered to Be a Lighter

The handgun actually turned out to be a butane cigarette lighter designed to look like a handgun. “The replica firearm butane lighter was similar in size, color and design to a real firearm,” police said in a release.

Suspect Identified and Arrested

The ensuing investigation and a public tip led police to identify Stephen McDonald, 56, as the suspect. He was arrested at his home on Broadway on Monday, May 18.

McDonald is charged with armed robbery with a firearm and is scheduled to be arraigned today in Taunton District Court.

Raynham Police Chief Appreciates Public Tip

"While a replica handgun was used, the clerk believed it was real and feared for their life," Raynham Police Chief David LaPlante said. "This could have ended with serious or tragic consequences. I commend our officers for a quick and thorough investigation, and appreciate the public for sharing information that led to an arrest."