A jury in South Jersey has convicted Junior Edwards, 39, of Lansdowne, on charges of first-degree murder following a fatal home invasion in October 2024. The incident resulted in the deaths of two women: Catherine Nunez, 33, and her mother, Marisol Nunez.

Details of the October 2024 Tragedy

The Break-in and Fatal Shootings

Prosecutors detailed how Edwards forcibly entered the residence on Harrington Circle in Willingboro by smashing a first-floor window. Catherine Nunez immediately contacted 911 to report the intrusion.

Edwards then reportedly forced both women into an upstairs bedroom. It was in that room that he shot both Catherine and Marisol Nunez to death. The shooting occurred while the 8-year-old son shared by Edwards and Catherine Nunez was present in a nearby room; the child fortunately sustained no injuries.

Additional Convictions and Sentencing

In addition to the two counts of first-degree murder, Edwards was also convicted of endangering the welfare of a child and other related offenses stemming from the incident. In New Jersey, a conviction for first-degree murder carries an automatic sentence of life imprisonment.

Edwards' formal sentencing hearing has been scheduled for May 22. During the trial proceedings, prosecutors stated that the underlying motive for the shooting remained unclear, noting that Edwards and Nunez had not been in a relationship for some time.

Family Reaction to the Verdict

Days after the murders, Joseph Puig-Hill, who is Marisol Nunez’s brother-in-law, spoke at a vigil, describing the two victims as “the epitome of goodness.”

Puig-Hill recently shared his reaction to the conviction on Facebook. He confirmed his attendance at the trial and expressed relief, stating he witnessed “this demon being dragged away in handcuffs to his new and eternal home.”