Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray announced today that Estol Molina, 43, of Newark has been indicted for the murder of Erica Ortiz-Fuentes.
Ms. Ortiz-Fuentes was fatally stabbed at approximately 7:45 a.m. on Sept. 30, 2010 on St. Francis Street, near the Newark preschool where she worked as a teacher’s aide. She was on her way to work when she was attacked. She was rushed to the University Hospital but died from her injuries.
At the time of her death, Ms. Ortiz-Fuentes had ended her relationship with Molina.
In a three count indictment, Molina was charged with murder and two weapons offenses. He is currently being held on $500,000 bail at the Essex County Correctional Facility.
His next scheduled court appearance is Aug. 16 at 9 a.m. before the Honorable Peter Vazquez, Judge of the Superior Court. The case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor William G. Neafsey.
These charges are mere accusations. All defendants are presumed to be innocent until they are proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
