By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities in New Jersey are continuing their investigation into a series of burglaries and vehicle thefts that culminated in a brutal home invasion and carjacking in Union Township.
Law enforcement officials announced the arrest of four Newark men—Asim Key, 20; Altamir Thornton, 22; Yashir Phillips, 19; and Rahiem Maldonado, 22—who are accused of carrying out the violent attack on September 20. 
The crime stresses early that morning around 7:30 AM when the suspects allegedly forced their way into a home in Union.
Inside, they brutally assaulted two elderly residents in an effort to steal the keys to a high-end vehicle parked outside.
The victims sustained serious injuries that required immediate medical attention.
Investigators revealed that the suspects had arrived at the scene in a BMW X3, which had itself been reported stolen from Livingston, NJ, the night before.
After overpowering the victims and taking the keys, the group fled with both the stolen BMW and the homeowner’s vehicle.
The BMW was later found in Newark, intentionally set on fire and completely destroyed.
Authorities say this violent attack was just one part of a broader crime spree.
Prior to the Union incident, detectives linked the same individuals to a string of burglaries and thefts that occurred across multiple locations throughout the state.
Using advanced investigative techniques, local, state, and federal agencies collaborated to track down the suspects and build a case leading to their arrests.
This case stresses the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combating organized vehicle theft and related violent crimes.
Officials credit the successful arrests to the coordinated efforts of multiple agencies working together to dismantle criminal networks operating across New Jersey. 
The Union Township Police Department has expressed gratitude to all the agencies involved in bringing these suspects to justice.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to vehicle thefts or home invasions.