Teenager Charged in New Jersey Hit-and-Run

A teenager charged with the deaths of two 17-year-old girls in a New Jersey hit-and-run has been publicly named after prosecutors decided to try him as an adult. This announcement came from the Union County Prosecutor’s Office on Friday.

The individual, 18-year-old Vincent Battilolo from Garwood, will face first-degree murder charges in the Criminal Division of Union County Superior Court. His case was transferred from juvenile court, granting him adult status.

Previously, Battilolo’s identity wasn’t disclosed due to his being a minor during the incident. However, once he was moved to adult court, authorities indicated that this information could now be made public.

Reports indicate that Battilolo was responsible for hitting Isabella Salas and Maria Niotis while they rode electric bicycles in Cranford on September 29, 2025, around 5:26 p.m. Tragically, both girls were taken to a local hospital but were later pronounced dead.

Investigators arrested Battilolo after a detailed inquiry into the incident. He faces two counts of first-degree murder along with additional traffic-related charges.

In earlier news, recordings of a 911 call revealed witnesses reporting the hit-and-run, highlighting the chaos at the scene, with one caller noting that the Jeep Battilolo was driving “flew off the road and hit people.”

This case has drawn significant attention, particularly from the families of the victims. Maria Niotis’ mother has expressed her belief that the incident was premeditated, claiming that Battilolo felt untouchable due to ties within law enforcement.

As more details unfold, it’s evident that emotions are running high among those affected. The community is grappling with the sorrow and outrage surrounding this tragic event, with many calling for justice for the two young girls whose lives were cut short.