CRANFORD MOURNS TWO TEENS KILLED IN E-BIKE CRASH; 17-YEAR-OLD CHARGED WITH MURDER

The Cranford community is reeling after two 17-year-old girls were struck and killed while riding their e-bikes Monday evening, an incident that has since led to first-degree murder charges against a teenage suspect.

What Happened

• On September 29, around 5:30 p.m., the two girls were riding on Burnside Avenue in Cranford when a black SUV struck them, then fled the scene.

• The victims were later identified as Maria Niotis and Isabella (Isabela) Salas, both 17 and students at Cranford High School.

• They were taken to hospitals, where they succumbed to their injuries.

The Arrest & Charges

• Authorities arrested a 17-year-old male from Garwood, New Jersey in connection with the crash.

• On October 1, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office formally charged him with two counts of first-degree murder.

Allegations & Investigation

• Neighbors and friends allege that the suspect had been stalking one of the girls for months, and that concerns had been brought to school and local law enforcement before the crash.

• The vehicle sought in the investigation is described as a 2021 black Jeep Compass with tinted windows.

• Authorities are asking residents and motorists in the area to check surveillance, dashcams, or any relevant footage.

Community Response

• Vigils and memorials have sprung up near Burnside Avenue, where mourners have left candles, flowers, and messages in honor of Maria and Isabella.

• In a statement, Cranford Public Schools and local officials expressed deep sorrow and committed to offering grief counseling and support to students, staff, and families.

The family has started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the funeral cost for both Maria and Isabela, if you can help support please find the link here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-burnside-avenue-tragedy-victims