Vincent Battiloro, a Garwood teen, was arrested in a deadly hit-and-run in Cranford, killing two girls.

 Two little girls were killed in a sad hit-and-run tragedy, leaving the town of Cranford, New Jersey, in shock and mourning. Vincent Battiloro, a 17-year-old from Garwood, has been arrested and charged in connection with this tragic incident, according to law enforcement officials.

According to the authorities, Battiloro struck two girls riding an e-bike together on Burnside Avenue on September 29 while driving without due caution. The fatalities, Maria Niotis, 14, and Isabella Salas, 15, were beloved members of the Cranford community. Both unfortunately perished in the horrific event, leaving their friends, family, and neighbors in mourning.

Battiloro's troubling post-event behaviors have further upset the community. According to investigators, he was first arrested after the collision but was subsequently freed. He allegedly went on social media during this time, posting live videos in which he appeared to brag about the incident and even suggested that his family's connections to police enforcement would protect him from repercussions. People in the community were outraged by these posts, which prompted a lot of criticism.

Battiloro was arrested once more after a reopened investigation and mounting public pressure, and he is currently being charged with two charges of first-degree murder. Locals have named him as the accused, but authorities have not revealed his name in early press reports because he is a child.

Cranford has been permanently impacted by the deaths of Isabella and Maria. On the sidewalk at the accident scene, a rising tribute of balloons, flowers, and touching letters has taken over. On Tuesday night, hundreds gathered for a candlelight memorial in remembrance of the girls, sharing stories of their joy, kindness, and the significant impact they made in their brief lives.

More than $100,000 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign created to support the families of the victims. People from all around New Jersey and beyond continue to donate, demonstrating the unwavering love and support these families are receiving in the midst of this unfathomable loss.

Scott Rubin, the superintendent of Cranford Public Schools, expressed his profound sadness and called Isabella and Maria "bright lights in our school community." Counselors are on hand to help pupils cope with the event's emotional fallout.

As the court case progresses, locals are demanding justice and accountability. For many, Battiloro's purported social media conduct exacerbates an already upsetting circumstance. The prosecution has made it clear that they will take the case very seriously.

This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers reckless driving brings, especially to young people and children who are already at risk. Despite the tragically premature end of Isabella and Maria's lives, their legacy will live on in the community they had a significant influence on.