Lindenhurst, New York – A 23-year-old CVS employee who had stepped in to cover a coworker’s holiday shift was fatally stabbed during an apparent robbery attempt on Christmas night, according to authorities in Suffolk County.
Incident Overview
Police say Edeedson “Eddy” Cine, 23, was working behind the counter at a CVS pharmacy in Lindenhurst on the evening of December 25, when a man approached and attacked him with a knife. The suspect, later identified as John Pilaccio, 43, allegedly fled the scene on foot after the stabbing.
Cine was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead from his injuries.
What Police Say Happened Inside the Store
According to the Suffolk County Police Department, the incident occurred just before 7 p.m. Surveillance video from inside the CVS reportedly shows Pilaccio walking through the store before approaching Cine at the counter.
Police allege that Pilaccio suddenly lunged at Cine with a knife, stabbing him in the chest. Investigators say the attack did not stop there. After the initial stabbing, Pilaccio allegedly jumped over the counter and continued attacking the young clerk before fleeing the store.
Witnesses inside the store later identified Pilaccio as the attacker, police said.
Arrest and Charges
Authorities tracked Pilaccio to his home, where he was arrested Friday without incident, according to police. He has since been charged with second-degree murder and is currently being held without bond at Suffolk County’s Third Precinct.
Pilaccio was arraigned on Saturday, and his next court appearance is scheduled for December 31.
Alleged Motive: Robbery for Money
Court documents obtained by local media indicate that Cine and Pilaccio did not know each other prior to the attack. Investigators believe the stabbing was motivated by money.
According to police statements cited during the arraignment, Pilaccio allegedly confessed to the stabbing and told investigators he was in debt and intended to rob the store. Police said Pilaccio claimed that Cine refused to comply with his demands, which allegedly led to the violent confrontation.
A Shift He Wasn’t Supposed to Work
Family members say Cine was not scheduled to work that night. He had agreed to fill in for a friend’s shift on Christmas, a decision that tragically placed him in harm’s way.
In an interview with local television station News 12 Long Island, Cine’s brother described the loss as devastating for the family, noting that Eddy was simply trying to help someone else during the holidays.
Remembering Edeedson “Eddy” Cine
A GoFundMe campaign created to support Cine’s family describes him as a young man deeply committed to helping others.
“He had a fierce heart for service, and his love for his family and friends was unwavering,” a relative wrote. “That love will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know him.”
Community members have also expressed shock and grief over the killing, especially given that it occurred on Christmas Day inside a neighborhood pharmacy.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Police say the investigation is ongoing, though authorities believe Pilaccio acted alone. Prosecutors have not indicated whether additional charges may be filed as the case progresses.
If convicted of second-degree murder, Pilaccio could face decades in prison under New York law.
Workplace Safety Concerns After the Incident
The fatal stabbing has renewed concerns about retail worker safety, particularly during holiday hours when stores remain busy and open late. Retail employees often work alone or with limited staff, making them vulnerable during robbery attempts.
Law enforcement officials continue to urge anyone who witnesses suspicious behavior in retail settings to report it immediately and emphasize that employee safety should always take priority over property.
Conclusion
The death of Edeedson “Eddy” Cine highlights the tragic consequences of violence faced by frontline retail workers, even during moments meant for family and celebration. As his loved ones mourn a life cut short, the case moves forward through the courts, where prosecutors will seek justice for a young man who was simply helping out on Christmas night.
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