A tragic incident in Cranford, New Jersey, has left two teenage girls dead and a community in mourning after a teen boy allegedly stalked and ran them down with a car.

According to the New York Post, on September 30, 2025, 17-year-olds Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas were killed after being hit by a Jeep, and a 17-year-old boy — a distant family member of local Police Chief Christopher Battiloro — has been charged with their murders after allegedly stalking one of the victims.

The collision occurred around 5:30 p.m. when the girls were riding on a shared e-bike. A black 2021 Jeep collided with them on a Cranford roadway, resulting in severe injuries. They were taken to a nearby hospital, where they both succumbed to their injuries.

Authorities confirmed the driver of the vehicle was a 17-year-old male, who is not being named publicly due to his age. Prosecutors announced that he will face two counts of murder. This development has shocked the local community and raised questions about prior warnings that were allegedly ignored.

Restraining Order Filed Before Incident

The suspect had reportedly been fixated on one of the girls and had been spotted parked outside her home several times. Neighbors indicated they had seen him outside the residence almost daily for three months leading up to the incident. A restraining order had been filed against him, although officials have not specified which girl took this legal action.

Community members voiced frustration, indicating red flags may have been missed or dismissed. “She made complaints and nothing was done,” said friend Tammy Carbajal. Another neighbor shared, “He was never stopped.” Local law enforcement is now under scrutiny, despite Chief Battiloro’s department being among the first to respond to the crash. The chief addressed the matter directly in a heartfelt and clarifying public statement.

Police Chief Issues Personal Public Statement

Chief Christopher Battiloro publicly addressed the incident on October 1, just one day after the identity of the suspect became known. In a detailed Facebook post, he firmly separated himself and his family from the alleged perpetrator.

“While social media has made it known that the accused is related to me,” he said, “he is not my son and not a member of my immediate family.” Battiloro made it clear he had no role in the actions of the accused and condemned them fully. The chief, who has served Cranford and the surrounding communities for years, offered deep condolences and acknowledged a personal loss. Salas had lived near him, and he recalled seeing her grow up since the day he moved in.

Community Grieves Lives Lost Too Soon

Battiloro expressed anger and heartbreak over the deaths of the two young victims, Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas. “I am shocked, stunned, and so overwhelmingly distressed beyond belief by the horrific loss of two young ladies,” he wrote in his statement. He promised that justice would be pursued through the established legal system.

“I do unequivocally condemn the actions of the accused,” he said, emphasizing that the justice system must hold the teenager fully accountable. He pledged full cooperation and commitment to the families affected by the tragedy. The chief also touched on the emotional impact felt not just by him, but by his entire household. “My wife, my children, and I are absolutely heartbroken over this senseless loss of life,” Battiloro stated. “Also, of the lost feeling of safety and security in the neighborhood and community that you and I call home.”

Justice Sought as Investigation Continues

The investigation is ongoing, and the legal process has only just begun. Since the accused is a minor, his name has not been released to the public. However, the charges leveled are among the most serious any minor can face.

Chief Battiloro has urged the public to place its trust in the criminal justice system. “I maintain full faith and confidence… that it will ensure he is held fully accountable,” he said. “I, too, demand full accountability and justice.” He reminded residents that healing will require time and community support. “We are stronger together,” he wrote, noting that the lives of Isabella Salas and Maria Niotis will be honored as the town navigates forward.

Long-Term Effects on Local Residents

The emotional fallout in Cranford has been significant. Residents have expressed concern over the safety of their children, especially in light of the reported stalking before the crash. The sorrow is especially heavy in neighborhoods where the girls were well known.

Battiloro issued a final message of solidarity: “I stand with you — my friends and neighbors — and I grieve with you and I pray for you. I am here for you.” He pledged that both he and the Westfield Police Department are ready to assist during this difficult period. He ended his statement with a declaration shared by many mourning families and friends: “We will honor the lives and legacies of these two young ladies… and we will survive this horrible tragedy together.”