By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities in Essex County have charged two men in connection with the fatal overdose of a 27-year-old Livingston resident earlier this year. Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Livingston Police Chief Gary Marshuetz announced that Erick Peguero, 36, of Paterson, and his twin brother, Esteven Peguero, 36, of Clifton, are facing multiple drug-related charges, including first-degree strict liability for drug-induced death.
Livingston police were called to a home on May 31, 2025, where officers found Justin Wang deceased with an empty heroin envelope beside him.
A joint investigation by the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force, the Livingston Police Department, and the New Jersey State Police revealed that Wang had met with both brothers the day before.
Investigators say he bought oxycodone from Erick Peguero and later purchased heroin from Esteven Peguero.
Prosecutors also filed charges for distribution of a controlled dangerous substance, as well as distribution within 1,000 feet of a school zone and 500 feet of a public building.
Assistant Prosecutor Brianne Cunningham said the charges reflect the office’s focus on holding drug suppliers responsible for the harm caused by illegal narcotics.
She stated that investigators will continue identifying and prosecuting individuals involved in the distribution of illicit drugs throughout the county.
The case remains under active review, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless found guilty in court.