HARTFORD, CT – A Massachusetts mother and her infant son lost their lives in a chilling drive-by shooting in Hartford earlier this month, prompting an intensive manhunt and subsequent arrest of the suspect in Puerto Rico.

Authorities apprehended Lance Benuet Morales, 23, in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, charging him with the murder of 20-year-old Jessiah Mercado and her 4-month-old son, Messiah Diaz. The U.S. Marshals Service reported that Morales allegedly targeted the vehicle Mercado was traveling in on November 19, also injuring another individual who survived.

After the incident, Morales fled to Puerto Rico. Hartford Interim Police Chief Kenny Howell urged Morales to surrender, emphasizing the gravity of his actions. “You’ve taken the lives of an infant and his mother. We do not tolerate this in this city,” Howell passionately asserted during a press conference.

According to police, the shooting resulted from a personal dispute between Morales and Mercado, described as “acquaintances.” Morales is said to have pursued Mercado in his vehicle, opening fire as he drew alongside her car in Hartford, striking both Mercado and her son in the back seat.

The relentless pursuit of Morales involved a coordinated effort by the Hartford Police Department and U.S. Marshals Service’s Violent Fugitive Task Forces in both Connecticut and Puerto Rico. “This arrest is a testament to the close collaboration… and demonstrates the reach these partnerships bring to the pursuit of justice,” stated Lawrence Bobnick, acting U.S. Marshal for the District of Connecticut.

Morales is now awaiting extradition to Connecticut, where he faces charges including murder, first-degree assault, and others related to firearm possession. A bond of $3 million has been set for his release.

The tragic deaths of Mercado and her son have deeply impacted their Springfield, Massachusetts community. A GoFundMe campaign initiated by Mercado’s family describes her as a cherished mother and friend. It highlights her resilience despite facing life’s challenges and underscores the joy her son brought into her world.

“If you had the pleasure of knowing her, you know she was one of the strongest young women,” the GoFundMe page reads, illustrating the profound loss felt by those who cherished Mercado and her son. The family seeks support to provide a fitting farewell for them both, honoring their memory amidst the sorrow.