A Connecticut man was ordered held on $5 million bail Monday after being charged in a drive-by shooting that killed a 20-year-old woman and her 4-month-old baby. The fatal incident, which occurred in Hartford on November 19, was allegedly sparked by a $400 debt the woman owed the suspect for renting his SUV.
Details of the Shooting
Lance “Macho” Morales, 23, of Waterbury, Connecticut, appeared in state court following his extradition from Puerto Rico, where he was arrested on November 23. Morales is accused of opening fire on a vehicle carrying Jessiah Mercado, her infant son Messiah Diaz, and two other individuals. Mercado and her baby were killed, while a third person was injured but survived.
According to a newly released arrest warrant, Morales drove up to the victims’ vehicle in broad daylight and fired into it after a brief exchange with Mercado. Witnesses told police that Mercado informed Morales her baby was in the car, to which Morales allegedly responded, “I don’t care,” before opening fire.
Authorities also noted that the weapon used in the shooting appeared to be fully automatic.
Dispute Over SUV Rental
The arrest warrant revealed that the conflict stemmed from Mercado’s use of a Mazda SUV rented from Morales for $100 per day. Mercado had reportedly fallen behind on payments, owing Morales $400.
Court Proceedings and Background
Morales, charged with murder, assault, and other offenses, faces a potential life sentence without parole if convicted. During his initial court appearance, Morales’ lawyer stated that he could not afford the $5 million bail but did not directly address the allegations.
Morales has a prior conviction for attempted assault and several other pending criminal cases in Connecticut. His next court date is scheduled for January 8.
