A close-knit New Jersey community is reeling after a devastating tragedy claimed the lives of two teenage girls, identified as Maria Niotis and Isabella Sala, both 17 years old, who were struck and killed in a hit-and-run crash while riding an electronic bike earlier this week.
Authorities said the crash occurred in Cranford on Monday just before 5:30 p.m. Police and first responders arrived at the scene to find the two girls critically injured. They were rushed to a nearby hospital, but despite emergency efforts, both Maria and Isabella were pronounced dead shortly after.
On Wednesday, Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel and Cranford Police Chief Matthew Nazzaro announced that a 17-year-old boy from Garwood had been charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the crash. Due to his age, his name has not been publicly released.
Community members expressed shock and outrage over reports that the teenage suspect had allegedly been stalking one of the girls for several months. Neighbors told Fox 5 that the boy had parked outside her home, monitored her online activities, and followed her at school. They added that police were aware of the troubling behavior before this incident.
In a statement, the Cranford Township Committee said:
“The Township of Cranford is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of two young women in last night’s heartbreaking incident. Our hearts go out to their families, friends, and loved ones during this time of unimaginable pain and sorrow.”
Authorities have emphasized that the investigation remains active. They urged anyone with information to contact the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force Detective Alex Lanza at 908-370-4318 or Cranford Police Detective Jason D’Agostino at 908-276-0171. Anonymous tips may also be submitted by phone at 908-654-TIPS (8477) or online at uctip.org.
As details continue to unfold, the grief within the Cranford community is palpable. Friends of the victims described them as bright, kind-hearted, and full of life, with promising futures ahead of them. A GoFundMe page has been created to help support the families during this devastating time, with organizers writing:
“Our hearts are broken with this sudden and senseless loss of two beautiful young lives.”
Both Maria Niotis and Isabella Sala were remembered not only as beloved daughters and friends but also as young women with radiant personalities who touched the lives of those around them. Their deaths have left classmates, neighbors, and teachers struggling to cope with the enormity of the loss.
The incident has sparked renewed conversations around youth safety, online harassment, and the importance of taking stalking behavior seriously. For now, the focus remains on seeking justice for Maria and Isabella, and providing support to their grieving families as they navigate an unimaginable tragedy.
