CRANFORD, New Jersey (WABC) — An 18-year-old accused of killing two teenage girls in Cranford, New Jersey, is scheduled to appear in court Monday morning for an arraignment on an adult indictment charging him with two counts of first-degree murder.
Vincent Battiloro is accused of intentionally driving a vehicle into 17-year-old best friends Isabella Salas and Maria Niotis while they were riding an e-bike on Burnside Avenue last year.
Monday’s hearing marks the first time Battiloro is expected to appear in court in person. His previous court appearance was held virtually.
The case has drawn significant attention in Cranford, where family members, friends and community supporters have continued to remember the two girls and press for justice.
Last month marked one year since Salas and Niotis were killed. Hundreds gathered at a vigil on Burnside Avenue to honor the teenagers, who were widely described as inseparable best friends.
Friends, relatives and an attorney representing the Niotis family have previously alleged there was a history of harassment involving Battiloro before the crash. Family representatives have said they believe the criminal case is strong.
Battiloro was 17 at the time of the incident and was initially charged as a juvenile. He is now being prosecuted as an adult.
The arraignment is scheduled for approximately 9 a.m. in Elizabeth. The criminal case remains ongoing.
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