A 17-year-old New Jersey boy allegedly livestreamed on YouTube a day after fatally striking two teen girls with his car on Monday.
NJ 101.5 reported that the teen boy took to YouTube on Tuesday to claim he was bullied and talk about the government not handling the mental health crisis. A day earlier, the teen reportedly ran over Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas, both 17, as they rode electronic bikes in Cranford.
The suspect drove for a short distance with one of the bicycles under his Jeep before his vehicle became disabled, according to reports.
NJ 101.5 reported that during Tuesday’s livestream, the teen commented about how much engagement he was receiving from viewers who admonished him for Salas and Niotis’ slayings.
Residents claimed that the teen boy had been stalking one of the girls and would park out front of her home for three months. One of the girls reportedly had a restraining order against the suspect.
The teen boy, who has not been publicly identified, has since been charged with Niotis and Salas’ first-degree murders. According to the New York Post, the teen boy may have been targeting Niotis when he struck her and Salas on Monday.
Those close to the case speculated that the suspect was not arrested before Monday’s incident because he is related to a police chief. Since then, Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro confirmed the suspect is his nephew.
“I do unequivocably condemn the actions of the accused, and like you, I demand that he face the consequences of his alleged actions in a court of law. As a law enforcement officer, I maintain full faith and confidence in our criminal justice system, and that it will ensure he is held fully accountable. I, too, pray for these families. I, too, demand full accountability and justice,” he said in a statement.
It remains unclear whether the 17-year-old will be charged as an adult.
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