Florida Woman Fatally Stabbed Inside Barnes & Noble, Police Investigate Motive
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — A 65-year-old woman died after being stabbed inside a Barnes & Noble bookstore in Palm Beach Gardens, leaving investigators searching for a motive in the tragic incident. The victim, identified as Rita Loncharich, was attacked around 8 p.m. on Monday at the Legacy Place shopping center, according to the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department.
Witnesses reported that 40-year-old Antonio Moore fled the scene immediately after the stabbing. Police officers responding to the emergency found Loncharich inside the bookstore suffering from a stab wound. She was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to her injuries shortly thereafter.
Moore was apprehended shortly after the incident and has been charged with first-degree premeditated murder, according to jail records from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. He is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Wednesday morning.
In a statement, the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department confirmed the investigation is ongoing and emphasized that authorities are actively working to determine the motive behind the attack. “This investigation is active and ongoing,” the department said, underscoring the need for further inquiries.
Loncharich’s husband told local media that his wife called him on her cell phone during the attack to inform him of the assault. The emotional toll of the incident has resonated deeply within the community.
Legacy Place management expressed sorrow over the tragedy, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of a customer following an incident on property.” They assured the public that safety remains a top priority, noting that they are collaborating closely with local law enforcement, increasing on-site security measures, and reviewing safety protocols with tenants. The statement was reported by WPTV News, a local news outlet.
The Barnes & Noble location involved in the stabbing is a popular retail spot within the shopping center, frequented by residents for books and community events. The incident has raised concerns about public safety in retail environments, especially during the busy holiday season.
Authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses to piece together the circumstances that led to the violent attack. The police department encourages anyone with information to come forward.
For updates on the case and public safety advisories, residents can refer to the City of Palm Beach Gardens official website and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The community remains hopeful that the investigation will soon provide clarity and justice for the victim and her family.
This tragic event underscores the unpredictable nature of violent crime and the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to protect citizens and maintain safety in public spaces.
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