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As the Lindenhurst community continues to mourn the loss of CVS employee Edeedson “Eddy” Ciné Jr., support for his family is rippling outward.
Hunter Business School, where Edeedson Ciné Sr. has spent years shaping students’ lives as a beloved teacher, has shared a heartfelt tribute honoring the Cinés, while encouraging the community to take part in the growing wave of generosity surrounding the family.
“At Hunter Business School, we often speak about being a family,” the school wrote in a Facebook post. “This week, that bond is more important than ever.”
The post described Ciné Sr. as a “pillar” of the school’s community — a longtime instructor known for his kindness, dedication and deep commitment to his students. Additionally, it said the school is now rallying to help ease the financial burden facing the family as they grieve the loss of 23-year-old Eddy Ciné, who was killed while working Christmas night at the CVS on East Montauk Highway in Lindenhurst.
As of Friday evening, a GoFundMe established for the Ciné family had raised $121,683 through more than 2,800 contributions.
Students and alumni quickly filled the comment section with messages of sympathy and gratitude, sharing personal memories of Ciné Sr.’s influence in their lives.
“Mr. Ciné was my teacher at Hunter Business School last year,” former student Samantha Carrillo wrote about Ciné Sr., who earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from St. Joseph’s University, New York in Patchogue. “He was an amazing teacher — always ready to go, had the biggest smile on his face and was just always motivating us.
“When I discovered it was his child, my heart was broken. No parent deserves this.”
Earlier this week, Ciné Sr. at a candlelight vigil in Lindenhurst spoke with striking composure and compassion while honoring his son’s life. Standing beside his wife and children, Ciné Sr. thanked the community, law enforcement, educators and strangers alike — offering gratitude rather than anger, and asking that Eddy be remembered not for the violence that ended his life, but for the strength of his character and the kindness in his heart.
At the vigil, Ciné Sr. spoke about his family’s faith, forgiveness and the importance of love.
John Pilaccio, 43, of Lindenhurst has been charged with first-degree murder in the Christmas attack. Law enforcement officials have said that Pilaccio stabbed Ciné in the chest after the employee refused to comply with his demand for money.
Alleged CVS Christmas killer hit with first-degree murder indictment
In its post, Hunter Business School encouraged those who are able to donate, while also emphasizing that sharing the message itself is a meaningful act of support.
“Ed, please know that your Hunter family is standing right beside you,” the school wrote. “Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones.”
Top: At left, Edeedson Ciné speaks Monday during a candlelight vigil in Lindenhurst in honor of his son (Eric Micallef photo). On right, Edeedson “Eddy” Ciné Jr. (Instagram).
