A New Mexico teenager is facing first-degree murder charges after allegedly shooting an Uber driver, Joseph Andrus, on August 7, 2025. The 18-year-old suspect, Sheliky Sanchez, confessed to the crime, telling police that he committed the murder to “let off some steam” due to overwhelming stress.
Sanchez reportedly planned to target “anybody he could see or find,” and he made the chilling decision to kill Andrus after having his girlfriend order the Uber for him.
Details of the Crime
According to the criminal complaint, Sanchez instructed his girlfriend to order an Uber ride for him on the night of August 6. The following morning, Sanchez entered the car driven by Andrus and began the ride.
Sanchez later confessed to police that Andrus was friendly during their conversation, but Sanchez still decided to go through with his plan. Upon arriving at the destination, Sanchez allegedly ordered Andrus to exit the vehicle. When Andrus took too long to comply, Sanchez pulled out a gun and shot him five times.
After the shooting, Sanchez allegedly got out of the car, shot Andrus again, and watched him die before stealing the vehicle. Sanchez was later found driving the stolen Ford Escape, which he claimed to have bought from someone on Facebook Marketplace just the day before.
When police initially interviewed him about the incident, Sanchez denied any involvement and pretended to have no recollection of the events. However, upon learning that the car he was driving belonged to the murdered Uber driver, Sanchez eventually confessed to the crime.
The Motive Behind the Murder
Sanchez reportedly told authorities that he was under extreme stress and wanted to relieve it by harming someone. He explained that he didn’t want to target anyone he knew and instead decided to shoot a stranger.
When questioned further, Sanchez said that although Andrus “seemed like a good guy,” he still chose him as the victim, adding that he “wished he had picked a different driver that looked big and buff.”
Sanchez’s Arrest and Charges
Sanchez was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, armed robbery, and tampering with evidence. He is currently being held without bail at the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center. The tragic killing has shocked the community, with local officials expressing their sorrow over the senseless act of violence.
Uber’s Response
Uber has publicly expressed its shock and heartbreak over the killing of Joseph Andrus. Andrew Hasbun, the head of safety communications at Uber, said in a statement, “We are shocked and heartbroken for Joseph’s family and loved ones after this senseless attack.”
He also praised the police for their swift work in bringing the responsible party to justice.
Family’s Response to the Murder
Andrus’ mother spoke to local news, remembering her son as “a light in this world that can’t be dimmed.” She thanked the Albuquerque Police Department for their efforts in the investigation and requested that all inquiries be directed to them.
The tragic murder of Joseph Andrus serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable violence that can occur when stress and anger are left unchecked.
Sheliky Sanchez’s confession has left many people shocked by the senseless nature of the crime, and the case continues to unfold as authorities work to ensure that justice is served for the victim’s family.
