Reported by The Star Team
On Saturday, a collaborative effort by the United States Marshals Service, the Puerto Rico Police Department (PRPB), and the Municipal Police of Fajardo led to the capture of a man sought on murder and firearms charges in Connecticut.
On November 19, 23-year-old Lance Benuet Morales from Hartford, Connecticut allegedly pursued four individuals and opened fire during a financial dispute. This violent incident resulted in the deaths of two, including a four-month-old infant and her 20-year-old mother, while another victim sustained a leg gunshot wound. The fourth individual successfully transported the injured to a Hartford hospital.
“We recognize that this arrest cannot restore the lives of the four-month-old infant or her mother, but we trust that the U.S. Marshals Service’s actions will provide some comfort to the families affected by this heartbreaking situation,” stated Wilmer Ocasio Ibarra, U.S. Marshal for the District of Puerto Rico, in an official statement. “Let this arrest act as a warning to those who think they can utilize Puerto Rico to escape justice. Be aware that the Marshals Service will relentlessly pursue you until you are held accountable.”
The Hartford Police have named Morales as the main suspect in the shooting and have secured an arrest warrant, charging him with murder, first-degree assault, illegal firearm possession, and attempted murder with aggravating circumstances.
Following leads, Morales was found at a residence in a neighborhood in Fajardo. Anyone with information that may assist in locating a fugitive is encouraged to call (787) 766-6297, contact the U.S. Marshals Service Communication Center at 1 (800) 336-0102, or use the USMS Tips App.
