Florida Barnes & Noble Stabbing: Suspect Arrested in Random Attack

A woman was killed in a random stabbing at a Florida bookstore Monday night. The Palm Beach Gardens Police Department confirmed the fatal incident at the Barnes & Noble on Legacy Avenue. It happened just before 8 p.m. on December 22.

Authorities have arrested a suspect who confessed to the crime. They say he had no prior connection to the victim.

Victim Identified as Rita Loncharich

The victim was 65-year-old Rita B. Loncharich. Police found her inside the store with a knife wound. Emergency crews performed life-saving measures at the scene.

She was rushed to a nearby hospital. Sadly, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. According to reports from the Associated Press, she was reading a magazine when attacked.

Her husband received a devastating call from her after the stabbing. She managed to tell him she had been hurt before help arrived.

Suspect Confesses to Random Act of Violence

Police arrested 40-year-old Antonio Moore near the scene. Surveillance video showed him fleeing into wooded areas close to the bookstore. Officers located and detained him quickly.

Moore provided a full confession to investigators. He stated he chose the closest person in the store. The suspect cited a psychotic “internal build up” as his motive.

Court documents note Moore has a history of mental illness. He is a homeless man who recently arrived in Florida from Georgia. He now faces a charge of premeditated first-degree murder.

Community Reels From Shock of Random Crime

This violent act has shaken the Palm Beach Gardens community. A bookstore is widely considered a peaceful public space. The randomness of the attack amplifies the fear and tragedy.

Local leaders have expressed their condolences to the victim’s family. The incident highlights ongoing discussions about public safety and mental health resources. It will likely prompt reviews of security protocols in retail spaces.

The case proceeds through the justice system. Moore remains held without bond. His first court appearance is scheduled for later this week.

The Barnes & Noble stabbing represents a profound violation of safety in an everyday setting. This random act of violence has left a community searching for answers and mourning an innocent life.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was the victim in the Barnes & Noble attack?

The victim was identified as Rita B. Loncharich, a 65-year-old woman. She was at the bookstore reading a magazine when she was assaulted.

What has the suspect said about the motive?

The suspect, Antonio Moore, told police he acted due to a psychotic “internal build up.” He admitted to choosing the closest person to him with no prior interaction.

How was the suspect caught so quickly?

Store surveillance footage captured the suspect fleeing. Police tracked him into nearby woods and apprehended him shortly after the attack was reported.

What charge does the suspect face?

Antonio Moore has been charged with premeditated first-degree murder. He is being held without bond at the Palm Beach County Jail.

Was there any connection between the suspect and victim?

Police confirm there was no connection. Investigators stated this was a completely random act of violence with no prior contact.

How has the community responded?

The Palm Beach Gardens community has expressed shock and sorrow. The incident has prompted discussions on safety in public retail spaces.