COPIAGUE, N.Y. – A 29-year-old Salvadorian national has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the 2023 fatal stabbing of a man outside a deli in Copiague, the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office announced.
The defendant, identified as Gherson Lopez, pleaded guilty in June to Manslaughter in the First Degree, a Class B violent felony, in connection with the killing of 34-year-old Jose Argueta-Canales.
According to investigators, the incident took place on May 15, 2023, outside a deli in Copiague. Lopez and the victim were smoking when a verbal dispute broke out. The confrontation turned physical but ended after Lopez complained of injuring his hand. The two men shook hands, and Argueta-Canales sat on a bench near the deli to eat. Moments later, another exchange of words occurred, during which Lopez stood over the seated victim and stabbed him twice in the chest. Argueta-Canales died from his injuries.
On September 26, 2025, Supreme Court Justice Richard Ambro sentenced Lopez to 20 years in prison, followed by five years of post-release supervision. He was represented in court by attorney Christopher Gioe.
Copiague Stabbing
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Gherson Lopez, 29 |
| Victim | Jose Argueta-Canales, 34 |
| Incident Date | May 15, 2023 |
| Location | Outside a deli in Copiague, Suffolk County |
| Charge | Manslaughter in the First Degree (Class B violent felony) |
| Plea | Guilty (June 11, 2025) |
| Sentencing Date | September 26, 2025 |
| Sentence | 20 years in prison, followed by 5 years post-release supervision |
| Judge | Supreme Court Justice Richard Ambro |
| Defense Attorney | Christopher Gioe, Esq. |
Q&A Copiague Stabbing
What is Manslaughter in the First Degree?
In New York, Manslaughter in the First Degree is a Class B violent felony. It typically involves intentionally causing serious physical injury that results in death, or killing someone under circumstances that show intent but not premeditation.
How does this differ from Murder?
Murder charges generally require proof of intent to kill and, in some cases, premeditation. Manslaughter, while still intentional, is considered a step down because it lacks certain elements such as prolonged planning or extreme depravity.
What happens after sentencing?
Following sentencing, Lopez will serve his prison term in a New York State correctional facility. After completing his 20-year sentence, he will be subject to five years of post-release supervision, during which his activities and compliance with the law will be closely monitored.
Could Lopez face deportation?
As a Salvadorian national, Lopez could face immigration consequences, including potential deportation proceedings, after serving his prison term.
