A teenager from New Jersey has been charged with murdering two 17-year-old girls, one of whom he was reportedly stalking, and it has been revealed that he is related to the area’s police chief—who is also a close family friend to one of the deceased cyclists.
Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro has distanced himself from his extended relative, now facing double murder charges for the tragic deaths of Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas, occurring in Cranford, NJ, on Monday.
In a Facebook statement on Wednesday, Battiloro stated, “Although it has been publicly noted that the accused is related to me, I want to clarify that he is not my son and not part of my immediate family.”
He emphasized, “I want to express as clearly as possible that neither my family nor I condone, support, or excuse the actions that led to this heartbreaking loss of life.”
The two girls, both students at Cranford High School, were reportedly riding an e-bike when they were struck by a black 2021 Jeep at around 5:30 p.m. on Monday.
Tragically, both teenagers succumbed to their injuries at the hospital.
Expressing his shock, Battiloro remarked, “Like many of you, I am shocked, stunned, and deeply troubled by the horrific loss of these two young women.”
He continued, “This event has personally affected me as I lost a neighbor, a vibrant and charming young woman named Isabella Salas, who I have known since I moved to Cranford.”
Following the crash that severely injured the girls, Battiloro and his officers responded to the scene.
The silence was broken only after authorities charged a 17-year-old boy with two counts of murder on Wednesday, with Battiloro calling for justice for the two teenagers. The identity of the suspect hasn’t been disclosed due to his minor status.
“I unequivocally denounce the actions of the accused, and like all of you, I insist that he faces the legal repercussions for his alleged actions,” Battiloro stated.
As a law enforcement official, Battiloro expressed confidence in the criminal justice system, ensuring that the suspect will be held accountable. “I, too, am praying for the families affected. I also demand full accountability and justice,” he added.
Reports from loved ones revealed that the accused was stalking one of the girls, who had even filed for a restraining order against him. It remains unclear which girl obtained the order.
Friend Tammy Carbajal shared with CBS 2, “She made complaints and nothing was addressed. It’s just tragic. It’s simply tragic.”
A neighbor told Fox 5 that the alleged perpetrator parked outside one of the girl’s residences for three months prior to the incident.
“He was never confronted,” the neighbor remarked.
The heartbroken police chief spoke of how his family is feeling the weight of the tragedy, which has “violated” their community.
“My wife, my children, and I are utterly devastated by this senseless loss of life, and we feel the immense loss of safety and security in our neighborhood,” he expressed.
Battiloro reiterated his commitment to uphold honor and integrity, principles he embraced upon his appointment as chief in December 2018.
“I stand with you—my friends and neighbors—and I mourn with you. I am here for you, offering my heartfelt support, and any assistance that I or the Westfield Police Department can provide as we navigate this difficult time,” he concluded.
“Together, we will honor the memories and legacies of these remarkable young women, Isabella and Maria Niotis. We will endure this tragic event together,” Battiloro added.
