A tragic incident unfolded at a Long Island CVS on Thursday when an employee was fatally stabbed, with the suspect escaping the scene on foot.

Authorities apprehended 43-year-old John Pilaccio the following day, charging him with second-degree murder, as reported by WABC.

News12 revealed that the victim, 23-year-old Edeedson Cine, was working a shift for a friend on the night the attack occurred.

In court on Saturday, prosecutors detailed Pilaccio’s confession, where he admitted to stabbing Cine. Pilaccio claimed his intention was to rob the store due to financial distress, but Cine’s resistance led to the violent encounter.

Eyewitness accounts and security footage captured Pilaccio prowling the store before he suddenly lunged at Cine, stabbing him in the chest, according to Law&Crime. After the initial attack, he leaped over the counter to continue his assault before making his escape.

Cine was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip, where he died, WABC said.

In court, the killer’s attorney entered a not guilty plea on his behalf, News12 said. He was ordered held without bail and is due back in court on Wednesday.