"Later Wednesday, well after news of the charges, the police chief of neighboring Westfield shared on social media that he was related to the suspect. He didn't specify the nature of the relation, but said the teen is not his son nor a "member of his immediate family." "I want to be clear, as loud and as firm as possible, that in NO WAY do my wife, children or I condone, defend, or excuse the actions that caused this terrible and tragic loss of life," Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro said in a statement"
"The families of the two victims said in a joint statement that the suspect "had been plotting this attack against Maria for months, carried out this horrific act." Sources said the three apparently knew each other. Prosecutors did not share where the suspect was being held or when he was expected to make his first court appearance. Law enforcement sources previously said the incident may have stemmed from a possible break-up or argument."
A 17-year-old was charged with first-degree murder after an SUV allegedly struck and killed two girls as they rode bicycles in Cranford. Witnesses said the crash appeared intentional and the driver sped off; a suspect was later arrested. Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro acknowledged a familial connection to the suspect, clarified the teen is not his son or immediate family, and condemned the actions. Battiloro said he assisted Cranford police at the scene and lives in the same neighborhood as victim Isabella Salas. Families said the suspect "had been plotting this attack against Maria for months," and authorities suggested a possible breakup or argument as motive. Prosecutors did not disclose custody location or court date.
Read at NBC New York
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