Antonio Moore, 40, faces first-degree premeditated murder charges after allegedly stabbing 65-year-old Rita Loncharich in the back at a Barnes & Noble in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, on December 22, 2025, claiming no prior interaction or motive beyond an “internal buildup” triggering his fight-or-flight response.
Attack Circumstances
The unprovoked incident unfolded around 7:53 p.m. inside the Legacy Avenue store, where Moore was charging his phone; he pulled a fixed-blade knife from his jacket, stabbed her once, heard her shocked cry of “He stabbed me,” then fled a quarter-mile into woods before capture via witness descriptions and surveillance.
Victim’s Fate and Suspect Background
Loncharich, found with the knife embedded, died during surgery at St. Mary’s Medical Center despite rushed transport. Moore, in Florida about a week via bus from Georgia, confessed details to police and awaits a January 22 court date while held without bond.
Official Response
Barnes & Noble’s plaza management expressed sorrow, prioritizing safety with enhanced security and law enforcement collaboration; no further victim details or Moore plea status available.
