By: Najla Alexander
Authorities in Atlantic County announced that on February 27, Edward Johnston, 25, pled guilty to Aggravated Manslaughter for causing the death of 8-year-old Javier Velez in Absecon on July 23, 2023.
The investigation revealed that the defendant was intoxicated and traveling at approximately 107 MPH westbound on the White Horse Pike, according to ACPO officials. 
Atlantic County officials stated that his vehicle left the lane of travel and collided with the rear of a parked vehicle, where the victim was sleeping while the victim’s father and brother fished just outside the vehicle.
Johnston will be sentenced on May 13, 2025, before the Hon. Joseph Levin, J.S.C., ACPO authorities say.
Atlantic County officials said the plea agreement calls for the defendant to serve 15 years in New Jersey State Prison, subject to the No Early Release Act, meaning Johnston must serve 85% before becoming eligible for parole.