HARTFORD, CT – In a city grappling with the aftermath of a tragic drive-by shooting, Hartford police have announced the arrest of a suspect linked to the deaths of a young mother and her infant son. This marks the second such incident in Hartford within a week, underscoring the city’s urgent battle against violent crime.
Authorities revealed that Lance Morales, 23, was apprehended in Puerto Rico by U.S. Marshals. He was found in a residential area of Fajardo, over a thousand miles from the scene of the crime. Morales stands accused of fatally shooting 20-year-old Josiah Mercado and her four-month-old son, Messiah Diaz, in a brazen daylight attack on New Britain Avenue.
The tragic event unfolded when a vehicle approached the car Mercado and her son were in, and someone opened fire. The attack also left a man in his 20s injured, although he is expected to recover. The incident sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of grief and calls for action.
Morales is currently being held as a fugitive from justice, with a hefty $3 million bond set against him. Authorities are preparing for his extradition to Connecticut, where he will face charges of murder and assault. The swift arrest highlights the cooperation between local law enforcement and federal agencies in tackling cross-state criminal activities.
Hartford’s Mayor, Arunan Arulampalam, praised the efforts of the police, emphasizing the city’s commitment to justice. “If you commit a heinous act in Hartford, even fleeing the state won’t shield you from justice,” he stated, reflecting the city’s resolve to combat crime.
As the city mourns, a community vigil is planned for Tuesday to honor Mercado and her son. The vigil aims to bring the community together in solidarity and remembrance, offering support to the grieving family and friends.
The arrest of Morales provides a semblance of closure, yet the pain of loss remains palpable. Hartford continues to confront the challenges of gun violence, striving for a safer future for its residents.
The city’s resolve in the face of such adversity serves as a testament to its resilience. As Hartford moves forward, the community remains united in its demand for justice and peace.