A Union Avenue woman came home just a half-hour after a couple’s slaying on Easter morning behind her residence and a short walk from the Garfield Avenue Light Rail—an area where residents are often concerned about safety, she says.

“This community has needed more visible police patrols on Union and Randolph avenues, especially near the Garfield Light Rail, not just late night but also at commuter hours, so I’m glad they’ve stepped up patrols,” said the woman, who declined to be identified, citing safety concerns. “This is an up-and-coming community which makes the working class targets.”

A makeshift memorial marks the spot where her neighbors were targeted in a botched, 3 a.m. robbery and carjacking at the hands of a trio of gun-toting 19-year olds. Michael Muchioki, 27, and Nia Haqq, 25 had careers, just celebrated their engagement and returned to their Randolph Avenue residence. Both were shot twice in the back of the head outside their 2010 Honda CR-V when the trio could not steal the vehicle due to an anti-theft device.

On April 9, Latoma and Shiquan Bellamy of Ocean Avenue, and Darmelia Lawrence of Woodlawn Avenue, were arrested after a multi-agency investigation, according to Hudson County Prosecutor Edward DeFazio.

Funeral services for Haqq and Muchioki were held at Newark Symphony Hall and Monumental Baptist Church. The couple will be buried together at Rosedale & Rosehill Cemetery in Linden.

Ward F Councilwoman Viola Richardson expressed condolences.

“I have been to see the family about three times,” Richardson said. “I responded on Sunday, on Easter to the Muckioki family and offered assistance. Additionally, I requested that the police increase patrol in the area.”

New Jersey Transit issued a statement. “The Hudson-Bergen Light Rail system is patrolled 24-hours a day by NJ TRANSIT Police Department uniformed and plain clothes officers. All light rail stations are equipped with closed-circuit cameras…Station platforms are well-lit to further enhance security. NJTPD works cooperatively with local law enforcement across the system, including the Jersey City Police Department, which it regularly meets with on all issues,” said spokesperson Courtney A. Carroll.

A memorial website, lovemikenia.com, has been set up for the slain couple.