CRANFORD, N.J. — Shocking new details have emerged in the case of 17-year-old Vincent Battiloro, who allegedly struck and killed two teenage girls in a fatal hit-and-run last month. Police records reveal that the teen suspect was detained after the crash but released to his ex-cop father just eight hours later, raising serious concerns from the victims’ families.
Teen Detained, Then Released After Deadly Crash
According to newly released computer-aided dispatch (CAD) reports, Battiloro was initially detained by police around 6:15 p.m. on September 29, 2024, shortly after the deadly crash that killed 17-year-olds Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas as they rode an e-bike in Cranford, New Jersey.
Despite the gravity of the incident, the teen suspect was released to his father, Jeffrey Battiloro — a retired Chatham Borough police officer — around 2 a.m. the next morning, just hours after being taken into custody.
Attorney Brent Bramnick, representing the Niotis family, told The New York Post that the release has left the victims’ loved ones devastated and demanding answers.
“They’re very upset that he was detained, released, and then rearrested,” Bramnick said. “They want to know why he was not charged that night.”
Charges and Possible Adult Trial
Battiloro currently faces first-degree murder charges in juvenile court, but Union County prosecutors may still transfer the case to adult court due to the severity of the crime.
The fatal crash occurred around 5:30 p.m. on September 29, when Battiloro allegedly intentionally mowed down Maria and Isabella while they were riding their electric bike.
Sources say Battiloro had been stalking Maria for months before the incident — a claim that adds to the disturbing nature of the case.
Questions Over Police Handling and Father’s Influence
Records reviewed by attorney Bramnick show that Battiloro’s initial detention and release happened within the same night — a move that has raised red flags for both families.
The suspect’s father, Jeffrey Battiloro, retired from the Chatham Borough Police Department in December 2024, according to department records. The Niotis family now questions whether the father’s law enforcement background may have influenced how the case was handled.
“Why this juvenile was released to his father after all that occurred,” Bramnick said, expressing the family’s frustration.
While the Union County Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed the teen was first detained, then later formally arrested and charged, officials have declined to provide details — citing the suspect’s juvenile status.
Community in Mourning, Families Demand Transparency
The Cranford community has been shaken by the tragedy, holding vigils in memory of Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas, two vibrant teens whose lives were cut short.
Family members continue to demand transparency from authorities, insisting that the circumstances of Battiloro’s release be fully explained.
“There are very serious concerns,” Bramnick said. “The family deserves to know if the system failed them.”
As the investigation continues, pressure mounts on Union County prosecutors to ensure accountability and justice for both victims.
What are your thoughts on this case? Do you think the suspect’s release was influenced by his father’s law enforcement ties? Share your views in the comments below.
