SAYREVILLE, NJ – A tragic incident near Sayreville High School has resulted in the death of a child found in a burnt vehicle, with the father, Manuel Rivera, facing several charges, including murder.
Authorities were alerted to a vehicle fire near Sayreville High School around 10:45 p.m. on Thursday, following a 911 call. The situation escalated with reports of a domestic dispute on Eisenhower Drive, involving Rivera and a subsequent discovery near the school.
Manuel Rivera, 43, was found with burn injuries and a self-inflicted wound at Washington Road, close to Sayreville High School. A vehicle, drenched in gasoline and ablaze, was found nearby. Rivera has been hospitalized for his injuries.
The investigation led to a grim discovery in the vehicle – the body of a child, whose identity has not been conclusively determined but is feared to be Rivera’s 9-year-old son. The charges against Rivera include murder, second-degree aggravated arson, endangering the welfare of a child, and desecration of human remains.
Sayreville Public Schools employ Rivera, and the deceased child was a student at Wilson Elementary.