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A New Jersey police chief has confirmed that the teen charged with the murder of two 17-year-old girls in a hit-and-run incident is his relative. The tragic event occurred on Monday (September 29) in Cranford, New Jersey, when Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas were struck by a black Jeep while riding an electric bike. Both girls, students at Cranford High School, were pronounced dead at the hospital.
Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro, who is related to the suspect, emphasized that the accused is not his son or a member of his immediate family. In a statement on Facebook, Battiloro expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, stating, "I do unequivocally condemn the actions of the accused, and like you, I demand that he face the consequences of his alleged actions in a court of law" as reported by the New York Post.
The 17-year-old suspect, whose name has not been released due to his age, is facing two counts of murder. Allegations have surfaced that the suspect was stalking one of the victims, with reports of a restraining order filed against him. However, these claims have not been officially confirmed by authorities.
Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel announced the arrest following a comprehensive investigation and thanked the public for their assistance. The investigation is ongoing, and it has not yet been decided if the suspect will be tried as an adult.