A New Jersey teenager, tragically killed in a hit-and-run incident, was remembered fondly by loved ones as her grieving mother spoke at the service on Friday. Maria Niotis, 17, was laid to rest while over 100 family members and friends filled St. Demetrius Greek Orthodox Church in Union.
“I’m aware many of you knew Mary, and I hope you can keep her memory alive,” the priest remarked during the heartfelt ceremony.
Maria’s casket was draped in a Greek flag with a bouquet of red roses adorning it. When her mother approached, tears fell as she mourned her daughter.
As attendees remembered Maria, they were reminded of the shared experiences of youth and the heavy burden of loss they faced together. “So many of you started your journey together,” the priest noted, acknowledging the pain within the community.
Display photos showcased Maria’s vibrant life—celebrating holidays with family, enjoying moments with her parents and twin brothers, and sharing laughter with friends.
Maria and her close friend, Isabella Salas, sadly lost their lives when 17-year-old Vincent Battilolo allegedly struck them at high speed on an e-bike on Cranford Street on Monday evening. Friends and family have claimed that Battilolo had been stalking Maria for some time, often seen parked outside her home.
