Cranford marks one year since Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas died

The township of Cranford, New Jersey, is marking the one-year anniversary of the deaths of Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas. The two friends died on September 29, 2025, after being struck by a Jeep while sitting on an e-bike on Burnside Avenue. According to Union County Prosecutor William Daniel, the vehicle, driven by Vincent Battiloro, approached from behind at approximately 70 mph.

Battiloro, who was 17 at the time of the incident, was initially charged with first-degree murder as a juvenile. However, the charges were waived to adult court in June. The legal process continues as prosecutors work toward a grand-jury indictment, a process expected to conclude by mid-October.

Families of the victims are holding a candlelight vigil on Tuesday to honor their memory. Legal representative Brent Bramnick noted that the families continue to struggle with the loss and that unresolved questions remain regarding the case, including allegations of prior harassment involving the defendant.