The Cranford community is reeling after two teenage girls were killed in a devastating hit-and-run incident on Burnside Avenue, with anger growing following the release of the suspect, Vincent Battiloro, the son of Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro.
The victims, identified by neighbors as 17-year-olds Greek-American Maria Niotis and Isabela, were riding e-bikes on Monday evening, September 29, when they were struck and killed by a black Jeep Compass. According to investigators, the driver fled the scene, dragging one of the bikes for several yards before his vehicle became disabled.
Allegations of Stalking
Neighbors and friends have alleged that the suspect, also 17, had been stalking one of the victims for months.
“He’s been parked outside of her house, online, in school,” one neighbor told Fox 5, adding that the police and the school had been notified “for three months now.”
Another neighbor voiced heartbreak and frustration, asking, “And nothing happened?”
Official Responses
The Cranford Township Committee released a statement expressing sorrow:
“The Township of Cranford is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of two young women in last night’s heartbreaking incident.”
Mayor Terrence Curran confirmed that both girls were students at Cranford High School, calling the tragedy “a dark day for our community.”
Cranford Public Schools also issued a message of support:
“Our Cranford community suffered a terrible tragedy. Please know that we are here to offer and provide comfort and support during this very difficult time.”
Questions Over Justice
Despite the severity of the case, no formal charges have been announced. The Union County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, asking residents to review surveillance or dashcam footage that may show the suspect’s black Jeep Compass.
The release of Vincent Battiloro has sparked outrage, with many questioning whether his father’s position as Westfield Police Chief played a role in the decision. Social media has been filled with calls for accountability and transparency.
Community Mourning
A GoFundMe campaign launched by Tiffany Pinero described the heartbreaking loss:
“Our hearts are broken with this sudden and senseless loss of two beautiful young lives.”
Friends and classmates have gathered at makeshift memorials near Burnside Avenue, leaving flowers, candles, and handwritten notes to honor Maria and Isabela.
Background on Chief Christopher Battiloro
Chief Battiloro, who has served Westfield with distinction since 1997 and was appointed Chief in 2018, is a highly decorated officer with a long history of public service. However, the involvement of his son in this fatal crash has placed his family in the center of a painful and controversial case.
Ongoing Investigation
The Union County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that the case remains under active investigation.
“This is an active investigation and we cannot share any further details,” officials said.
For now, Cranford is left grieving the loss of two young lives while demanding answers about why justice seems delayed.