Police Have Suspect, Seek Tips In Murder Of Elderly Woman
SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) - Southfield police think they know who killed an 81-year-old woman late last year, but he's not currently in custody.
Detective Lt. Nick Loussia said officers last month arrested a 45-year-old Southfield resident suspected in the murder of Helen Gale, who was found dead in her burning car on November 28.
Loussia said the suspect, who police believe knew Gale, was arrested on a parole violation and transfered Wayne County. He has not yet been charged in connection with Gale's murder, pending further forensic investigation.
The suspect, whose name has not been released, has been set free as the investigation continues.
Meantime, Loussia said they are asking for the public's help. Lucia said police believe that someone may have inadvertently helped this suspect the day after the murder.
"Someone may have given him a ride home. Someone may have given him a ride somewhere else from Highland Park on November 28th, Saturday morning," Loussia said. "They may not know that they actually aided somebody, you know. They may have thought that they were just doing a good deed."
Officials believe that there was some kind of a struggle or assault at Gale's Winchester Street home before she was found burned beyond recognition.
Crime Stoppers is offering a $2,500 reward for tips in the case. Anyone with information is asked to call the anonymous tip line at (800) 773-2587.
