Tragic Hit-and-Run Incident: Seeking Justice for Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas
A 17-year-old male is accused of causing a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the deaths of two teenage girls, Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas. The tragic incident occurred on September 29, while the girls were riding an electric bike. The suspect has not been charged as an adult yet.
The suspect allegedly engaged in two "swatting" incidents at Niotis' family home in Cranford, New Jersey, in the weeks leading up to the fatal crash. The first incident occurred between September 1 and 15, and despite the family informing the police, there was no apparent investigation conducted by law enforcement.
Following the second swatting incident, police arrived at the family's residence, where the suspect was reportedly parked in front of their house. Niotis' mother, Foulla, informed the police about the juvenile defendant's presence, and the suspect was later released to his father.
The Niotis family is seeking answers regarding the lack of investigation and action taken by law enforcement after the reported incidents. The family's attorney, Brent Bramnick, emphasized the importance of understanding what transpired and why no further action was taken by the authorities.
The driver of the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run, a resident of Garwood, New Jersey, was charged with two counts of first-degree murder. The suspect was driving a 2021 black Jeep Compass at the time of the fatal collision.
The Union County Prosecutor's Office confirmed that the suspect was detained for questioning after the incident but was subsequently released pending further investigation. The suspect was later arrested on October 1 on two counts of first-degree murder and is currently in custody.
Foulla Niotis expressed her belief that the suspect had planned the attack and felt invincible due to having relatives in law enforcement. She criticized local law enforcement for not taking action when they reported the suspect's stalking behavior towards Maria.
Foulla Niotis is determined to seek justice for her daughter, Maria, and Isabella. She emphasized the need for accountability and justice for the tragic loss of the two girls. The Cranford Police Department was contacted for comment on the matter.