New Jersey Man Faces Charges in Teenagers’ Deaths
A New Jersey man, Vincent Battiloro, age 18, faces murder charges after allegedly killing two 17-year-old girls. The incident took place on September 29, 2025, in Cranford, New Jersey. Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas were riding electric bikes when Battiloro allegedly struck them with his vehicle, according to prosecutors.
The day after the alleged incident, Battiloro was on a YouTube video game livestream, where he reportedly mocked his critics. He commented on the attention he received because of the tragic event. He mentioned that comments increase his engagement, which affects his YouTube earnings. He said, “The more you guys engage in the chat, the more you give me engagement and I get paid for YouTube.”
Viewers repeatedly brought up the deaths, prompting Battiloro to address the situation briefly. He expressed condolences, “I wish my sincerest condolences to those two girls lost in that tragic accident.” He added that more details would emerge but claimed he wasn’t authorized to discuss everything at that time.
Police stated that Battiloro’s own dash camera footage shows his actions on the day of the incident. He was seen in a Jeep Compass near Burnside Avenue, where the accident occurred. After parking, both girls were seen riding their bikes in the opposite direction. Detectives explained Battiloro made a U-turn, accelerated, and struck the girls at a high speed before stopping and fleeing on foot.
Initially, Battiloro’s identity was protected due to his minor status at the time of the incident. However, the case moved to adult court on June 26, and he now faces two counts of first-degree murder. Attorney Brent Bramnick, representing Niotis’ family, voiced approval of the decision to try Battiloro as an adult, seeing it as a step towards justice.
Bramnick noted that Battiloro allegedly targeted the Niotis family’s home twice in September 2025. This reportedly increased the family’s concern, leading them to question the police investigation. According to Bramnick, “We need those questions answered,” emphasizing ongoing independent investigations to seek clarity.
Fox News reached out to Battiloro’s attorney for a statement but has not yet received a response.