Defendant Says 'I Am Innocent' in Death of Two Young Girls in New Jersey

In the town of Cranford in the U.S. state of New Jersey, a new phase has begun in the case concerning the death of 17‑year‑old Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas, who were traveling by electric bike on September 29, 2025. At the time of the incident, Vincent Battiloro was 17 and is now 18; he did not plead guilty to first‑degree murder at his first in‑person hearing on October 26, 2026. Prosecutors allege that Battiloro deliberately collided with the two young girls in his vehicle.

Defense strategy came to the fore.

While a plea of innocence was presented on behalf of the defendant in court, defense attorney Rubin Sinins said they would file a motion to have the case heard elsewhere. The defense also announced that it was considering defenses based on mental illness and diminished culpability. After the incident, Battiloro was initially tried in juvenile court; later a decision was made to try him as an adult.

Families reiterated their demand for justice.

The families of Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas watched the hearing. The mothers of the two girls made tearful statements outside the courthouse. Isabella’s mother, Mary Salas, said that her daughter and her best friend Maria were still 17 and were preparing for graduation. The family said they wanted the incident fully clarified and the responsible parties held accountable. The joint statement from the families also emphasized their expectation of justice.

Questions arise over police footage.

The attorneys of the victim families are demanding an investigation into allegations that the defendant followed the young girls before the incident. They also request clarification on whether Battiloro was granted any privilege because his father is a retired police officer and his uncle is a police chief. The attorneys said they have not been able to obtain body‑camera footage related to the pre‑incident period. Cranford police said no footage or information has been released on the matter because the investigation is under the jurisdiction of prosecutors.

New trial date: December 14

The attorneys of the families plan to file a request with the New Jersey Attorney General's office to examine events that occurred before the murders. While the investigation and trial process continues, Battiloro's next hearing is expected to take place on December 14, 2026.