Juvenile Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run of Two Teen Girls

A 17-year-old suspect involved in a deadly hit-and-run may soon face prosecution as an adult, as legal experts suggest authorities might file a waiver next week. The juvenile, Vinnie Battiloro, is accused of striking and killing two 17-year-old girls, Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas, in Cranford on Monday.

Police state Battiloro was driving a Jeep at approximately 70 mph when he collided with the girls, who were riding an e-bike. One victim was found about 100 feet from the crash site. Battiloro, whose family members are in law enforcement, was questioned at the scene, then released prior to being officially charged on Wednesday with two counts of first-degree murder.

The victims’ photos and a memorial are displayed in the area as the community mourns the tragedy.

Prosecutors are expected to seek a waiver to transfer the case to adult court, which could lead to more severe penalties. An experienced prosecutor noted, “It’s highly likely the waiver will be requested, with the legal process requiring a detailed explanation of the case’s facts and why an adult trial is appropriate.”

Defense attorneys face challenges in contesting the waiver, as courts tend to grant them unless there’s clear evidence of abuse of discretion. If prosecuted as a juvenile, court proceedings would remain confidential. Experts also mention that bail can still be granted for juvenile defendants, even in serious cases like this, depending on individual circumstances.

It is important to note that New Jersey law mandates detention hearings for youths accused of serious offenses before release, with decisions made on a case-by-case basis.