A 17-year-old boy has been charged with murder in connection with a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the deaths of two friends riding an e-bike in Cranford, New Jersey. The crash occurred on Monday evening when a black 2021 Jeep Compass struck the girls on a residential street. They were taken to local hospitals, where they were pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Authorities identified the alleged driver from Garwood later that day and took him into custody. Following a thorough investigation, he was charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Union County Prosecutor William Daniel expressed gratitude for the public's assistance and commended the efforts of the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force and the Cranford Police Department.

The prosecutor's office had previously requested that residents check their home surveillance or dash cameras for any footage of the Jeep around the time of the crash. Details regarding the victims' identities and ages have not been released, and it remains unclear whether the suspect will face additional charges or be tried as an adult.

A vigil held on Tuesday night attracted hundreds of mourners. Cranford resident Brandi Schmidt shared her feelings, stating, "I don't think any of us had a decent night's sleep because it could be our own. So, you put yourself in their shoes and you come out and you support."

Those who knew the girls remembered them as kind and compassionate individuals. In a joint statement, the Cranford township committee, administration, police department, and fire department expressed their sorrow over the tragic loss. They urged the community to come together in compassion and kindness during this difficult time.

The name of the suspect has not been disclosed by local authorities. However, Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro, who is a relative of the suspect and a neighbor of one of the victims, expressed his shock and distress over the incident. He emphasized that the accused is not his son or an immediate family member and firmly condemned the actions that led to the tragic loss of life. "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," he stated in a release following the charges and arrest.