Police Seek Help In Solving 1973 Cold Case Double Homicide In Union County

PLAINFIELD, NJ — The Plainfield Police Department and Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office are asking the public for help in solving a cold case from 1973 for the deaths of John Sabbatino of New Brunswick and Jeanne Biondo of East Brunswick.

Shortly before 4 a.m. on April 19, 1973, Sabbatino, age 27, was found dead near Otis and Grove Avenues in Edison. Biondo, age 37, was found dead about three hours later in a vehicle parked in the rear of Plainfield Motor Vehicle Inspection Station on South Second Street in Plainfield.

Both Sabbatino and Biondo suffered fatal gunshot wounds.

Based on the investigation, the victims were reported to be at several different locations in Middlesex County before their deaths.

Sabbatino was reported to be at the following locations before his death:

• Mike Kerwin's Tavern located at 353 Bound Brook Road, Middlesex
• Carousel Lounge located at South Washington Ave. & Metlars Lane, Piscataway
• Cloud Nine Lounge located at 275 Rt. 18, East Brunswick

Biondo was reported to be at the following locations before her death:

• Cloud Nine Lounge located at 275 Rt. 18, East Brunswick
• Midstate Bowling Alley located at Mid State Mall 300 Rt. 18, East Brunswick
• Homestead Motel (the motel located at the same location as the Cloud Nine Lounge) located at 275 Rt. 18, East Brunswick
• Deauville Diner located at 245 Rt. 18, East Brunswick

Investigators believe some people have not previously come forward with information. Authorities are emphasizing that any detail, even if it seems insignificant, could be the missing piece that helps bring closure to the families.

"John Sabbatino and Jeanne Biondo were tragically taken from their families and loved ones," Plainfield Police Director James Abney stated. "Someone out there knows what happened that night, and we implore them to come forward with any information they may have, no matter how small it may seem."

Anyone with information should contact Plainfield Police Department Lieutenant William Tyler at 908-753-3036 or Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office Sergeant Paul Kelley at 732-745-3330, or Union County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Patrick Bradley at 908-418-2817.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously by phone at 908-654-TIPS (8477) or online at www.uctip.org; submission of tips made in this fashion that result in an indictment and conviction can be eligible for a reward of up to $10,000 via the Union County Crime Stoppers.

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