With help from the public, Raynham man accused of robbing convenience store with replica firearm captured by authorities

RAYNHAM — The Raynham Police Department arrested a man in connection with an armed robbery at a convenience store over the weekend.

On Sunday, at approximately 12:45 p.m., Raynham Police responded to a convenience store at 343 Broadway for a report of an armed robbery.

Officers arrived on scene and learned that the suspect had fled the store on an electric bicycle.

The investigation revealed that the suspect approached the counter and asked for several $50 scratch tickets. The suspect then placed what appeared to be a handgun on the counter and threatened the clerk.

The suspect then immediately fled the store with the lottery tickets.

The investigation later revealed that the object was a cigarette lighter designed to resemble a firearm. The replica firearm butane lighter was similar in size, color and design to a real firearm.

Through an investigation, and with assistance from a public tip, Raynham Police identified the suspect as 56-year-old Stephen McDonald of Raynham and obtained an arrest warrant.

On Monday, Raynham Police served the warrant at a home on Broadway and arrested McDonald.

He was charged with Armed Robbery with a Firearm. He is scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday in Taunton District Court.

“While a replica handgun was used, the clerk believed it was real and feared for their life,” said Chief David LaPlante. “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.”

These are allegations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law..