Son Charged With Murder After Mother Stabbed, Beaten to Death in New Jersey Home

Murder charges have been filed against a 24-year-old New Jersey man accused of stabbing and beating his mother to death.

Bail for Nicholas Piotti was set at $2 million. Prosecutors say he allegedly beat and stabbed his 63-year-old mother, Karen Piotti, killing her inside the home they shared in Ho-Ho-Kus. Her body was found early Monday.

Piotti was taken into police custody and was being evaluated at Bergen County Medical Center. Authorities say he had no "physical issues." 

Neighbors said the news has devastated those who knew the family.

"I only heard nice things about Nicholas," said Donna Cioffi. "I used to see him skateboarding up and down Powderhorn Road, like any other teenager would do. I never had any issues with him."

"It's just devastating to a hear a 24-year-old can take his mother's life," she said. "No matter what the situation or circumstance is, you have to believe there's something very wrong behind that. It's very, very unnerving."

Gerry Pearce said the death of Karen Piotti was incomprehensible.

"This neighborhood is unbelievably nice, quiet," he said. "You never hear anything like this happen here."  

Contact Us