OAN Staff Taylor Tinsley
10:48 AM – Friday, October 3, 2025
A New Jersey community is mourning the loss of two teens killed in a tragic hit-and-run, with one of the teens’ alleged stalkers behind the wheel.
17-year-old best friends Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas were riding E-bikes in a Cranford, New Jersey neighborhood on Monday evening when they were struck and killed.
The suspect, only identified by authorities as a 17-year-old male, is facing two counts of first-degree murder and is currently being held in juvenile court.
Court documents obtained by a local outlet claim the suspect has been issued at least 15 tickets in the past, including for leaving the scene of an accident, reckless driving and speeding.
One neighbor told local outlets that the 17-year-old suspect had been stalking Niotis for months.
“He’s been parked outside her house for three months now. He was never stopped,” the neighbor said.
“The school was notified and the police were notified,” another neighbor said.
Notably, Westfield Police Department Chief Christopher Battiloro confirmed he’s related to the suspect.
“I do unequivocally condemn the actions of the accused, and like you, I demand that he face the consequences of his alleged actions in a court of law,” Battiloro said in a statement released on Wednesday.
”As a law-enforcement officer, I maintain full faith and confidence in our criminal justice system, and that it will ensure he is held fully accountable,” he continued. “I too pray for these families. I too demand full accountability and justice. My neighborhood feels violated and we are grieving. I am writing this to let you know that I stand with you, my Cranford, friends and neighbors, and that I grieve WITH you.”
Battiloro also reportedly lives in the same neighborhood where the two teens were killed.
In a joint statement from the victims’ families, they alleged the suspect had been plotting the attack for months.
Both of the girls are being remembered as loving and kind.
A wake for Maria is scheduled to be held Thursday night. Her funeral will be held on Friday morning.
A wake for Isabella is scheduled to be held on Saturday morning. Her funeral will be held on Monday morning.
Stay informed! Receive breaking news alerts directly to your inbox for free. Subscribe here. https://www.oann.com/alerts
What do YOU think? Click here to jump to the comments!Sponsored Content Below