Deadly week in NJ: 2 more teens killed in e-bike crash — driver arrested

🚨Two teens on e-bikes were struck and killed in Cranford

🚨Driver fled on foot but was later found and taken into custody

🚨Deadly crash comes just days after another Union County teen died on an e-bike

CRANFORD — Two teens were struck and killed in a crash late Monday afternoon, the same week that another e-bike-riding teen in Union County was killed in a crash.

UPDATE: Homicide investigators are asking residents for security video 

Union County Prosecutor William Daniel said both individuals were struck by the vehicle on Burnside Avenue around 5:25 p.m. The driver walked away from the scene but was later arrested. The victims were pronounced dead at hospitals.

Cranford municipal officials identified the victims as "young women from Cranford High School."

"Our hearts go out to their families, friends, and loved ones during this time of unimaginable pain and sorrow," the township said in its statement..

Daniel did not disclose the identity of the driver or what charges they face.

An image of the crash by RLS Metro Breaking News shows an e-bike partially under an SUV after it was struck. Another image shows the windshield cracked and shattered.

Grief in Cranford as news of deaths is shared

One of the victims was identified as the daughter of a Cranford Station House employee. 

"Our prayers and thoughts are with all that have been affected, in this very difficult time," the diner's management said online. "As parents of four, we are deeply saddened and are at loss of words. We can only pray and hope that something like this never happens again!!!😥💔"

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Pedestrian safety campaign launched hours before crash

CBS New York reported that two teenage girls were hit. Witnesses told ABC 7 Eyewitness News they heard a vehicle traveling fast before the sound of screeching tires. Other residents said that drivers ignore the 25 mph speed limit.

Cranford schools Superintendent Scott Rubin said the district will offer comfort and support to the families involved and student and staff. A crisis team will be in place at each school.

"Our thoughts are with all of you, and especially the families and closest friends of the students involved. Please look after one another throughout our Cranford community and share any strength you have with those who need it most," Rubin said.

Earlier Monday, Commissioner of Public Safety Kathleen Miller Prunty posted a video on the township Facebook page about a pedestrian safety campaign with lawn signs encouraging drivers to slow down.

"Our goal is to get them to slow down in our town," Prunty said.

Last week on Wednesday, 13-year-old Nico Lombardi, of Scotch Plains, fatally collided with a landscaping truck while driving an e-bike.

Erin Vogt contributed to this report

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