Teen Admits to Killing Uber Driver ‘to Let Off Steam’

An 18-year-old New Mexico man is accused of fatally shooting an Uber driver in a random attack, allegedly telling police he did it “to let some steam off.”

Sheliky Sanchez appeared in court on Saturday after being charged with first-degree murder, armed robbery, and tampering with evidence in the killing of Joseph Andrus.

According to a criminal complaint, Sanchez told officers he was under stress and had his girlfriend order an Uber on August 7 with the intent to shoot the driver. Police say Sanchez admitted “cocking” his gun before the ride began to ensure he got the first shot.

During the trip, Sanchez reportedly described Andrus as “really cool,” but claimed he shot him multiple times after the drop-off, then shot again while watching him die. He allegedly stole Andrus’ Ford Escape, later removing its license plate.

Sanchez initially denied involvement, but later confessed, saying the killing felt like “a relief, like taking an in and out breath.” He told police the target was chosen at random, adding he “wished” the driver had been “big and buff.”

Andrus’ mother described her son as “a light in this world that can’t be dimmed.” Uber said it was “shocked and heartbroken” by the attack.

Sanchez remains in custody at Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center without bail.