Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas were murdered in a crash that has shaken North, New Jersey — a tragedy that exposes the deep intersections of feminist urbanism, mobility justice, and misogyny.

For young women, movement through public space is often their first taste of freedom. What does it say about our cities when that freedom can cost them their lives?

On the day of the crash, 17-year-old Vincent P. Battiloro was issued 15 tickets, including for allegedly leaving the scene of an accident involving injury, reckless driving, and speeding more than twice the limit — at least 70 mph in a 25 mph zone. He was also cited for allegedly driving without a license, registration, or insurance.

This story isn’t only about one horrific event. It’s about how our streets, our laws, and our culture continue to endanger women who dare to move through the world on their own terms.