'Coward Of A Man': Slain NJ Girls Families Lace Into Accused Killer

UPDATE: Accused Killer Of 2 Teens Identified Through NJ Court Records, Citations

CRANFORD, NJ — The 17-year-old boy who is accused of stalking and then fatally hitting two girls riding bikes with an SUV in Cranford is being called a "coward of a man" by the victims' families in a statement they gave to Fox 5.

Loved ones of former Cranford High students Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas said they believe, "It is now vital that the truth be shared: this was not an e-bike accident, and it was not a hit-and-run. This was murder in the first degree."

The families' statement went on to confirm reports that say the boy stalked at least one of the Cranford High School students for months. They said "a coward of a man, who had been plotting this attack against Maria for months, carried out this horrific act, taking not only her life but also Isabella's."

"He is not insane, he is competent and meditated," said the families of the girls.

Maria also reportedly filed a restraining order against him.

MORE FROM PATCH: Witnesses, Video Sought In Deadly E-Bike Crash Of 2 Teen Girls In Cranford

Fatal Crash

At around 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Cranford Police arrived at Burnside Avenue after two teenage bike riders were hit by a vehicle, according to authorities.

The two girls were airlifted to the hospital, where they later died, authorities said.

CBS News New York had reported the driver fled the scene, but authorities have not confirmed this to Patch.

The boy from Garwood was arrested and charged with two counts of murder on Oct. 1.

Police are asking for the public's help regarding a suspect and vehicle in the crash. Witnesses and those with surveillance footage are asked to come forward.

The driver has not been identified by name, and authorities have not confirmed any motives behind the crash.

Local Reaction

Outpourings of support continue to come in from people, organizations, and township agencies following Monday's deadly crash.

Westfield Mayor Shelley Brindle released a statement Wednesday saying she will "pray for justice and remain hopeful that the individual responsible for this heinous crime will be held fully accountable under the law." She also offered her support of Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro who released his own statement on Wednesday after accusations online regarding his family being involved in the crash.

He has since condemned the killer and confirmed that his immediate family was not a part of it.

"Chief Battiloro has the full and unequivocal support of myself and Town Council," Brindle adds. "We stand with him in mourning the devastating loss of these two young women."

A local business with ties to the family has confirmed to Patch that a gofundme to directly benefit the loved ones of the girls has been organized. Funds will be shared evenly to help with funeral costs.

The families of both girls will be making a live statement at 7:45 p.m. in Union on Thursday. Patch will bring you the latest from their remarks.

Service information for both girls has also been released.

Anyone with any information regarding this case is asked to reach out to 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.

MORE FROM PATCH: Vigil Held For Girls Killed Riding E-Bikes In Cranford: Police