Jacob Brown
Authorities in New Jersey were alerted to a devastating scene near Sayreville High School when they received a 911 call about a fire involving a vehicle late Thursday night.
Police Response and Encounter with the Suspect:
As law enforcement officials rushed to the scene, another call reported a related domestic dispute. Police responded to Eisenhower Drive, where they found a woman who disclosed that Manuel Rivera, 43, had left the home with their son after a domestic altercation.
Upon further investigation, authorities located Rivera near Washington Road, close to Sayreville High School, with severe burns and a self-inflicted wound. Adjacent to him was a vehicle engulfed in flames, indicating arson.
Community Shock and Grief:
Neighbors expressed shock and sorrow over the tragic events, describing the child involved as a joyful and energetic presence in the community. The incident has left the neighborhood reeling from the sudden loss.
Rivera has been charged with multiple offenses, including murder, second-degree aggravated arson, endangering the welfare of a child, and desecration of human remains in connection with the incident.
Connection to Sayreville Public Schools:
It has been revealed that Rivera is an employee of Sayreville Public Schools, and the child attended Wilson Elementary, further intertwining the tragedy with the local educational community.
Authorities have advised anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. They can contact the Sayreville Police Department or the Middlesex County prosecutor’s office.
