As the light faded and police called off their initial search for a 7-month-old who they believe plunged into the Connecticut River with his suicidal father, friends and family gathered in Middletown to remember the boy and pray for his safe return.
Police, however, are not expecting to find little Aaden Moreno alive.
According to state police, Aaden was with his father, Tony Moreno, 22, when Moreno jumped off the Arrigoni Bridge in Middletown late Sunday night. They believe the boy ended up in the water. Although Moreno was rescued and taken to the hospital, Aaden hasn't been seen since.
"It feels like my heart is clenched," said Kiana Beamon, who attended a candlelight vigil at the Middletown green Monday evening. "Whatever condition he’s in, I hope he’s found and that the family can get peace within their hearts."
Although the search has yet to yield any results, family members are holding out hope.
"I’m hoping and praying that somebody has him somewhere. You never know," said Tom Moreno, a relative of Aaden. "I’m hoping against hope that somebody will find that poor child."
The more time that passes, the more the community worries.
"I’m praying for a miracle that Aaden will be found alive, but also praying for the family and comfort for them, however this tragedy turns out," said family friend Djuana Beamon.
Authorities planned to interview Moreno at Hartford Hospital, where he has been receiving treatment. Police said they expect to file charges in this case.
It is not clear when rescuers will continue with their recovery mission on the river.
