NORTH HUNTINGDON TOWNSHIP, Pa. — An 82-year-old McKeesport man has been arrested and charged after allegedly attempting to lure a teenage boy into his vehicle and making sexual advances, according to North Huntingdon Township Police.
Police said the incident occurred on May 22 when a 16-year-old was walking along Main Street beneath the Veterans Bridge. The teen told investigators that an elderly man driving a yellow pickup truck approached him and asked if he wanted a ride. After the teen declined, the man asked for directions to the Treasure Hunt store.
According to police, the man then again offered the teen a ride and, after being refused, made a sexual advance. The suspect then drove off in the direction of Irwin.
As part of the investigation, detectives reviewed license plate reader data from the area and identified a yellow pickup truck matching the description. The driver, identified as Thomas Gibala, 82, of McKeesport, was confirmed to be in the area at the time of the incident.
The teen later positively identified Gibala in a photo lineup. Investigators said that during an interview with detectives, Gibala admitted to speaking with the teen and making inappropriate sexual comments.
Charges filed
Gibala has been charged with luring a child into a motor vehicle, corruption of minors, harassment, and disorderly conduct.
He was taken into custody following the investigation and is currently awaiting arraignment. No information on bail or legal representation was immediately available.
North Huntingdon Township police said the investigation was aided by surveillance technology and cooperation from the victim.