Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. — Holiday Shopping Turns Deadly
A routine evening of holiday shopping turned into tragedy on Monday when a woman was stabbed inside a Barnes & Noble bookstore in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, police confirmed. The 65-year-old victim was rushed to a local hospital but later died from her injuries, authorities said.
🧑🦳 Victim Identified and Emergency Response
Law enforcement officials responded to the Barnes & Noble located at 11380 Legacy Avenue shortly before 8 p.m. after reports of an assault. First responders found the victim inside the store with a serious stab wound. Despite immediate efforts by Palm Beach Gardens Fire Rescue and medical personnel, she succumbed to her injuries at the hospital later that night.
Her identity has been confirmed by police as 65-year-old Rita Loncharich, a holiday shopper who was described by loved ones as a warm and devoted family member.
🚓 Suspect Arrested; Investigation Active
Authorities quickly located and arrested 40-year-old Antonio Moore near the scene. Police say Moore has been charged with first-degree murder and is being held without bond as the investigation continues.
According to law enforcement statements, the attack appears to have been unprovoked and random. Witnesses helped officers identify the suspect after he fled the store on foot following the stabbing.
💬 Community Shocked, Motive Still Unknown
Local residents and customers at the bookstore expressed shock and sadness over the incident, noting the rare and violent nature of the attack in a normally quiet shopping area. Police continue to search for a motive as the community grapples with the impact of the event just days before Christmas.
The Palm Beach Gardens Police Department urges anyone with additional information to come forward to assist investigators.
