A Copiague man has been indicted for his suspected involvement in a lethal incident that began as a handshake.

The Suffolk County District Attorney declared on June 2nd that Gherson Lopez, a resident of Copiague, has been charged with murder for allegedly being involved in the murder of Jose Argueta-Canales, who was 34 years old. Lopez is 29 years old.

On Monday, May 15, while smoking outside of a deli in Copiague, Lopez and Argueta-Canales engaged in a verbal dispute as reported by the DA's Office.

According to reports, the argument in words transitioned into a physical altercation, however, Lopez stopped the fight by informing Argueta-Canales that he had injured his own hand.

They exchanged a formal handshake, proceeded to take a seat on the bench, and commenced the consumption of their meal.

Despite their altercation, Lopez remained in conflict with the victim, resulting in him placing himself above the victim and using a silver knife to stab him twice in the chest. This information was provided by the DA's Office.

The stabbing caused the death of Argueta-Canales.

Lopez faced an arraignment for the accusation of committing murder in the second degree. He is set to appear in court again on Friday, June 30th.

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