A New Jersey teen is facing two counts of first-degree murder after allegedly plowing his vehicle into two girls riding an e-bike, one of whom had reportedly taken out a restraining order against him. A black 2021 Jeep Compass struck the victims on a residential street in Cranford around 5:30pm Monday before fleeing the scene, according to the Union County Prosecutor's Office. Police say the girls—identified as Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas, both 17-year-old students at Cranford High School—were thrown more than 100 feet and later pronounced dead at hospitals, per WNYW. A 17-year-old from Garwood was apprehended later Monday following what prosecutors described as a "comprehensive and extensive investigation," per ABC News.
The suspect hasn't been named publicly because he's a minor. But Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro, who responded to the scene, confirmed he is a relative of the teen, though he emphasized neither he nor his immediate family condones the alleged actions. Individuals linked to the victims say the alleged driver had been stalking Maria, who took out a restraining order. A neighbor said he'd repeatedly parked outside her home over three months and "was never stopped," per the New York Post. It remains unclear whether the suspect will be tried as an adult or face additional charges. Cranford officials referenced "the sorrow of such a devastating loss" while calling on the community "to come together—with compassion and kindness," per ABC.
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