On Tuesday, November 19, 2024, a tragic drive-by shooting in Hartford, Connecticut, claimed the lives of 20-year-old Jessiah Mercado and her four-month-old son, Messiah Diaz. The incident occurred around 2:30 PM on New Britain Avenue when another vehicle pulled alongside theirs and opened fire. A third occupant, a man in his 20s, sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Originally from Springfield, Massachusetts, Mercado had recently relocated to pursue a better life for her and her son. She was actively participating in Roca, a violence intervention and behavioral assistance program aimed at supporting high-risk young adults. Community members remember her as a dedicated mother striving for positive change.
Hartford police have identified 23-year-old Lance “Macho” Morales of Waterbury, Connecticut, as the primary suspect. Morales, who was released from prison earlier this year after serving three years for attempted assault, now faces two counts of murder.
An arrest warrant has been issued, and Interim Police Chief Kenny Howell has urged Morales to surrender: “Lance, you have no other option but to hand yourself into the Hartford Police Department for the horrific crimes you have done,” Howell said during a televised news conference. “This hit at the heart of Hartford.”
The Hartford Police Department is actively pursuing leads to apprehend Morales. They have recovered the suspect vehicle and are analyzing forensic evidence. Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in locating Morales, urging individuals to contact the police with tips.
If convicted, Morales faces severe legal consequences, including potential life imprisonment. The charges reflect the gravity of the offense, underscoring the judicial system’s commitment to addressing violent crimes.
The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families has initiated an investigation, given the involvement of a child in foster care. The agency aims to understand the circumstances leading up to the incident and ensure the safety and well-being of other children connected to the case.
This incident adds to Hartford’s ongoing struggle with violent crime. In recent months, the city has witnessed several tragic events. In August 2024, two high school students, 19-year-old Lavante Brown and 16-year-old Aydin Davis, were fatally shot in a double homicide on Dillon Place.
Earlier, in May 2024, a man was found dead with multiple gunshot wounds on Fishfry Street, marking the city’s 13th homicide of the year.
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding Morales’s whereabouts to come forward. Community cooperation is vital in ensuring justice for Mercado and her son and in preventing future acts of violence.
