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Palm Beach Gardens, FL - Police are investigating a fatal stabbing inside a Barnes Noble bookstore in Palm Beach Gardens that left a 65 year old woman dead and led to the arrest of a suspect hours later.
According to the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department, officers responded to reports of a stabbing at the Barnes Noble located in the Legacy Place shopping center shortly before 8 p.m. on Monday evening.
When officers arrived, they found a woman inside the store suffering from multiple stab wounds.
Emergency medical personnel attempted lifesaving measures before transporting her to a nearby hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
The victim was identified as 65 year old Rita B. Loncharich.
Police stated that witnesses reported the suspect allegedly stabbed the woman inside the store and fled the scene on foot.
Officers conducted a search of the surrounding area and were able to locate a suspect a short time later.
Antonio R. Moore, 40, was taken into custody without incident and later booked into the Palm Beach County Jail.
Jail records show Moore was charged with first degree murder.
Investigators have not released details regarding a possible motive or the relationship, if any, between the suspect and the victim.
Police emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Detectives continue to interview witnesses and review evidence collected from the scene.
Authorities have stated there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The incident prompted a heavy police presence at the shopping center and caused the store to be closed for the remainder of the evening.
Community members expressed shock over the violence occurring inside a retail bookstore during the busy holiday season.
Further information is expected to be released as the case moves through the legal process.