New Jersey man convicted of killing 4 family members on New Year's Eve

MONMOUTH COUNTY, N.J. (TCD) -- A 20-year-old man was convicted of murder charges this week for fatally shooting four of his family members in 2017.

According to a press release from the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office, on Dec. 31, 2017, authorities from the Long Branch Police Department and Monmouth County Sheriff's Office responded to 635 Wall Street at approximately 11:43 p.m., in reference to shots fired.

At the scene, authorities reportedly located the four victims, the defendant’s sister, 18-year-old Brittany Kologi; his mother, 44-year-old Linda Kologi; his father, 42-year-old Steven Kologi; and his grandfather’s companion, 70-year-old Mary Schultz. They had all suffered gunshot wounds, the Prosecutor's Office says.

According to NJ.com, Kologi was dressed in sunglasses and a black leather jacket and shot his father and mother with a semi-automatic AK-style rifle that was legally owned by his brother. He then reportedly shot his grandfather's companion and then his sister, Brittany.

Scott Kologi was reportedly arrested, and a Century Arms C39v2 semi-automatic rifle used in the shooting was recovered. At the time of the crime, the Prosecutor's Office says Kologi was 16 years old and was waived to Superior Court.

On Thursday, Feb. 24, the Prosecutor's Office announced Kologi was convicted of four counts of first-degree murder and a second-degree weapons offense.

In a statement, Acting Prosecutor Lori Linskey said, "The jury’s verdict confirms that Scott Kologi was responsible for his decisions and actions on the night that culminated with him killing four members of his family."

Linskey added, "This trial hinged on issues of mental health and the responsibility of this defendant. It is clear that the jury considered all of the evidence, including testimony of expert witnesses, as well as the applicable law, in rendering its verdict. In recognizing the criminality of the defendant’s actions, we also recognize that this is a tragedy for all of the family members who are left to mourn this tremendous loss. This Office will continue to hold the perpetrators of gun violence responsible."

Kologi's sentencing is reportedly scheduled for Thursday, June 30. The Prosecutor's Office says Kologi could face up to four life sentences in state prison.

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