Teenager Identified, Will Stand Trial as Adult for Fatal Hit-and-Run Deaths
A teenager accused of fatally striking two 17-year-old girls in a hit-and-run incident last year in New Jersey will now face adult murder charges. Prosecutors announced Friday that the now 18-year-old, identified as Vincent Battiloro of Garwood, has been transferred from juvenile court to adult court. This development means Battiloro will stand trial as an adult for the deaths of Isabella Salas and Maria Niotis.
Details Emerge in Tragic Cranford Collision
The incident occurred on September 29, 2025, at approximately 5:26 p.m. in Cranford. Authorities allege that Battiloro, who was 17 at the time, was driving a 2021 black Jeep Compass when he struck Salas and Niotis as they rode an electric bicycle. Both victims were transported to nearby hospitals, where they were later pronounced deceased.
Following an extensive investigation, Battiloro was arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder, along with multiple traffic violations. His identity had been protected while his case remained in the juvenile system. However, with the transfer to adult court, prosecutors confirmed his name could be publicly released.
Eyewitness Accounts Describe Chaotic Scene
Emergency call recordings reveal the harrowing moments after the collision. One 911 caller reported seeing a vehicle speeding down the road before hitting the individuals, noting that one victim appeared unresponsive and was possibly trapped beneath a car. Another caller described a scene of shock, stating, “Nobody’s conscious. Everyone’s stunned, not moving.” A third caller urgently pleaded for help, exclaiming, “There’s a girl on the road, and there’s a car! Oh my God, please hurry!”
Family Seeks Justice, Alleges Prior Concerns Ignored
Maria Niotis’ mother, Foulla Niotis, has expressed her belief that the incident was not accidental. She stated that she believes the suspect may have felt “untouchable” due to alleged connections to law enforcement. Furthermore, Niotis claimed that local police failed to take action after her family reported that Battiloro had been stalking her daughter prior to the crash.
“They should have done a lot. They didn’t do anything,” Niotis stated, expressing profound grief and a desire for accountability. “They didn’t do anything to help my baby.” Her plea for justice for both Maria and Isabella remains a central theme for the grieving families.
Battiloro was initially detained for questioning following the incident and later released to his father. Records indicate his father contacted law enforcement after the crash. Battiloro was ultimately arrested two days later, on October 1.
