Vigil for Edison Cine

The leading police officer in Suffolk attended a vigil on Monday night, where he addressed a crowd of over 200 mourners to express his sorrow for the Christmas murder of Edison Cine, a well-loved CVS employee from Long Island.

Police Chief Kevin Catalina, visibly emotional, apologized to Cine’s family during the candlelight vigil held at Lindenhurst Village Square. He conveyed his regrets, telling them he felt responsible for preventing such tragedies. “My job is to prevent this from happening,” he said, with his voice breaking.

Catalina further expressed his condolences, extending a long hug to Cine’s father. He has pledged to collaborate with Suffolk County Prosecutor Ray Tierney to ensure that John Piraccio, the 43-year-old suspect in the case, remains imprisoned for life.

Court proceedings reveal that Piraccio entered the CVS before 7 p.m. on Christmas Day, demanding money from Cine, who refused and was subsequently stabbed in the chest. It was noted that Cine had chosen to work that holiday shift to allow his colleagues to celebrate with their families.

Cine’s father shared that his faith in God has helped him cope with this heartbreaking loss, expressing forgiveness towards Piraccio and stating that he holds no ill will against him.

“Love conquers all,” he remarked, expressing pride in his son’s character while lamenting the potential he would no longer realize.

Friends, family, and even acquaintances who were touched by Cine’s kindness gathered to remember the selfless person he was.

A woman identifying herself as the victim’s best friend spoke emotionally, recalling how he didn’t deserve this fate. Another poignant story came from a 12-year-old boy named Daniel, who described a summer day when he lacked enough money for Gatorade. Cine, affectionately known as Eddie, stepped in to cover the difference, a gesture that Daniel has never forgotten.

“Eddie was a good man. I wish there were more people like him in the world,” Daniel concluded.