HARTFORD, Conn. — Lance “Macho” Morales, 23, of Waterbury, has been arrested in connection with a fatal drive-by shooting that claimed the lives of a Massachusetts mother Jessiah Mercado and her 4-month-old son, Messiah Diaz. The Hartford Police Department announced that Morales was apprehended by the U.S. Marshals Violent Fugitive Task Force in Puerto Rico on Saturday morning.
Morales faces multiple charges, including two counts of murder, murder with special circumstances, criminal possession of a firearm, first-degree assault, and attempted assault. He is currently being held on a $3 million bond and is awaiting extradition to Connecticut.
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Incident Details:
The tragic shooting occurred on November 19, 2024, around 2:47 p.m. Hartford police were alerted by Hartford Hospital when a vehicle arrived carrying three gunshot victims. Among them were 20-year-old Mercado and her infant son, Diaz. Despite medical efforts, both were pronounced deceased.
A third victim in the vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is recovering.
Police determined that the shooting took place earlier that day in the area of 380 New Britain Avenue. According to investigators, Morales allegedly pulled alongside the victims’ vehicle and opened fire before fleeing the scene.
Investigation and Arrest:
Following the incident, Hartford police launched an intensive investigation, which led to the identification of Morales as the primary suspect. A probable cause warrant was issued for his arrest.
The U.S. Marshals Violent Fugitive Task Force tracked Morales to Puerto Rico, where he was taken into custody. Authorities have not yet disclosed additional details about his apprehension or his motive in the shooting.
Charges and Legal Proceedings:
Morales faces two counts of murder and murder with special circumstances, charges that indicate aggravating factors such as multiple victims or the killing of a child. These charges could make him eligible for the most severe penalties under Connecticut law.
Other charges include criminal possession of a firearm, which suggests Morales was prohibited from legally possessing a weapon, and assault charges related to the third victim who survived.
Community Impact and Reactions:
The deaths of Mercado and her infant son have left a community mourning their loss. Family members and friends have described Mercado as a loving mother whose life revolved around her son. Vigils and memorials have been held in their honor, with community leaders calling for an end to gun violence.
Hartford Police Chief Jason Thody emphasized the importance of apprehending Morales quickly to ensure justice for the victims. “This is a tragic and senseless loss of life,” he said. “Our department remains committed to pursuing anyone who commits such heinous acts of violence.”
Awaiting Extradition:
Morales is currently in custody in Puerto Rico as authorities coordinate his extradition to Connecticut, where he will face trial. It is unclear if Morales has retained legal representation or entered a plea regarding the charges.
Ongoing Investigation:
The Hartford Police Department continues to investigate the incident, with authorities urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to the Hartford Crime Stoppers hotline.
This case underscores the devastating impact of gun violence on families and communities, sparking renewed calls for preventative measures and justice for victims.
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