Hartford police have announced the arrest of 23-year-old Lance Morales, the suspect in the tragic killing of 20-year-old Josiah Mercado and her four-month-old son, Messiah Diaz. The victims lost their lives during a drive-by shooting on New Britain Avenue, marking a devastating incident that has left the Hartford community reeling.
Arrest in Puerto Rico
Authorities revealed that Morales was apprehended by U.S. Marshals in Puerto Rico, specifically in a residence located in Fajardo. His arrest followed an intensive investigation conducted by Hartford police, who identified Morales as the primary suspect in the shooting. Investigators did not disclose the timeline of his movements leading to Puerto Rico, but his capture underscores a coordinated effort to ensure justice.
Morales is currently being held as a fugitive from justice with a bond set at $3 million. Extradition procedures are underway, and upon his return to Connecticut, he is expected to face charges of murder and assault.
The Shooting Incident
The shooting occurred on a Tuesday afternoon, shattering the peace along New Britain Avenue in Hartford. Police reports indicate that an unidentified vehicle approached the car occupied by Mercado and her son, opening fire in what appears to be a targeted act of violence. The attack claimed the lives of Mercado and baby Messiah, while a man in his twenties, also present in the vehicle, sustained injuries. Authorities have stated that the man is expected to survive, though his condition and identity have not been publicly disclosed.
Community Reaction and Vigil Plans
The tragic deaths of Mercado and her son have sent shockwaves through Hartford, prompting an outpouring of grief and calls for justice. Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam commended the police for their swift and decisive actions, emphasizing the city’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable. “If you commit a heinous act in the city of Hartford, even if you try to flee the state, we will find you and we will bring you to justice,” the mayor stated in a firm message to the public.
In a show of solidarity and remembrance, a community vigil for the victims has been scheduled for Tuesday. This gathering aims to honor the lives of Mercado and her son, providing a space for collective mourning and support for their family and friends.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
While Morales’s arrest is a significant step forward, the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting remains active. Police are likely working to uncover the motive behind the attack and any potential connections Morales may have had to the victims. The incident has reignited conversations about gun violence in Hartford, a city that has witnessed multiple drive-by shootings in recent weeks.
This case highlights the persistent challenges faced by law enforcement and community leaders in addressing violent crime. The tragic loss of such young lives has left a lasting impact on the local community, intensifying efforts to promote safety and prevent future violence.
The Hartford community now looks toward the judicial process, hoping for accountability and justice for Josiah Mercado and her infant son, Messiah Diaz. As the city grieves, the forthcoming vigil serves as a poignant reminder of the profound toll violence takes on families and communities alike.
