Two Teenage Girls Killed in Hit-and-Run in Cranford, NJ
CRANFORD, NJ — Two 17-year-old girls, Maria Niotis and Isabella Sala, were fatally injured in a hit-and-run incident while riding an electric bike on Monday, shortly before 5:30 p.m., according to authorities.
The girls were found seriously hurt at the scene and later pronounced dead at an area hospital. A 17-year-old boy from Garwood has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the crash, but his identity remains undisclosed.
Neighbors reported that the suspect had allegedly been stalking one of the girls for several months, including parking outside her home and monitoring her online. Authorities confirmed they were aware of these allegations.
The Cranford Township Committee expressed deep sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the families and friends of the victims. The Cranford Police Department is collaborating with the Union County Prosecutor's Office on the ongoing investigation.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Union County Prosecutor's Office Homicide Task Force Detective Alex Lanza at 908-370-4318 or Cranford Police Detective Jason D'Agostino at 908-276-0171. Anonymous tips can be submitted at 908-654-TIPS (8477) or online at uctip.org.