Lindenhurst Man Indicted on First-Degree Murder Charge in CVS Stabbing Death
Table of Contents
Primary Topic: Criminal Justice / Homicide
Primary keyword: John Pilaccio
Secondary Keywords: Edeedson Cine Jr., Lindenhurst, CVS, First-degree murder, Suffolk County, New York, Stabbing, Indictment, Ray Tierney
On January 1, 2026, John Pilaccio, 43, of Lindenhurst, New York, was indicted on an upgraded charge of first-degree murder in connection with the Christmas Day stabbing death of Edeedson Cine Jr., 23, at a CVS Pharmacy in Lindenhurst. This growth follows an initial indictment on second-degree murder charges. The case has garnered notable attention in Suffolk County and beyond, highlighting concerns about workplace violence and the severity of the alleged crime.
Details of the Incident and Initial Charges
According to court records, the stabbing occurred around 6:30 p.m. on December 25, 2024, while Cine Jr.was working behind the counter at the CVS located in Lindenhurst. https://www.newsday.com/long-island/suffolk/lindenhurst-cvs-stabbing-murder-john-pilaccio-edeedson-cine-jr-1.24549991 Pilaccio allegedly attacked Cine Jr. and then fled the scene before being apprehended by police shortly after the incident.
Pilaccio initially pleaded not guilty to two counts of second-degree murder on December 27, 2024, in Suffolk County First District Court. Judge John Kelly ordered him held without bail.https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/long-island/man-charged-in-christmas-day-cvs-stabbing-death-on-long-island/4936991/
Upgrade to First-Degree Murder
The Suffolk County District Attorney’s office announced the upgraded charge of first-degree murder on January 1, 2026. The indictment states that Pilaccio killed Cine Jr. while allegedly committing another crime, though specifics of that alleged additional crime have not been publicly released. First-degree murder typically carries the most severe penalties, including life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty (depending on state laws).
Suffolk County District Attorney ray Tierney stated that Pilaccio allegedly implicated himself in the killing and that the attack was captured on the store’s surveillance cameras. https://www.fox5ny.com/news/long-island-man-indicted-on-murder-charge-in-christmas-day-cvs-stabbing This evidence is expected to be a key component of the prosecution’s case.
Victim and Family Impact
Edeedson Cine Jr.was remembered by his family and community as a principled and caring individual. His father, Edeedson Cine Sr., described his son as someone who consistently “showed up for people” and expressed profound grief over the loss of his potential. https://www.newsday.com/long-island/suffolk/lindenhurst-cvs-stabbing-murder-john-pilaccio-edeedson-cine-jr-1.24549991 The loss has deeply impacted the Cine family and the Lindenhurst community.
Legal Portrayal and Next Steps
Steve Fondulis is representing John Pilaccio. He has not yet publicly commented on the upgraded charge. Pilaccio is scheduled to be arraigned on the new first-degree murder charges on January 7, 2026. The arraignment will likely involve a review of the evidence and a further discussion of legal strategy.
Understanding First-degree Murder
First-degree murder is generally defined as intentional killing with premeditation, or committed during the commission of another serious felony (like robbery, as potentially indicated in this case). The legal definition and penalties for first-degree murder vary by jurisdiction. A conviction for first-
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