By: Richard L. Smith
A 72-year-old Paterson resident has been charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 70-year-old woman inside her home earlier this week, authorities announced.
According to the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, Duwan Gales faces charges of first-degree murder, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon.
The incident occurred on May 6, 2025, around 2:18 p.m., when Paterson police responded to a residence near Cianci and Market Streets following a report of a stabbing.
Upon arrival, officers discovered the victim inside the home with multiple stab wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Gales was apprehended without incident on May 8 and is currently in custody awaiting his first court appearance. The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office has filed a motion for pre-trial detention.
If convicted, Gales faces a minimum of 30 years to life imprisonment for the murder charge. The weapon possession charges carry additional potential sentences ranging from 18 months to 10 years.
Authorities have not released the victim’s identity, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Paterson Police Detective Bureau at 973-321-1120 or the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-370-PCPO.