Sheliky Sanchez: Alleged reason teen killed Uber driver, confession reveals three more killings

A teenager accused of murdering an Uber driver has allegedly confessed to involvement in three other killings, according to prosecutors, who revealed the claims in court last week.

Sheliky Sanchez, 18, from New Mexico, was arrested earlier this month after the shooting death of 30-year-old Joseph Andrus on August 7.

Authorities say Sanchez deliberately ordered an Uber ride with the intent to kill the driver, later telling investigators he needed to “let off steam.”

The Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office alleges Sanchez admitted he selected Mr Andrus because he “seemed like a good guy.”

Police say the ride began with a polite conversation but ended in tragedy.

After reaching their destination, Sanchez allegedly ordered Mr Andrus out of the car and shot him several times. The hardworking driver, who had recently achieved his long-time dream of graduating from college, never made it home, People reported.

Sanchez is now facing charges of first-degree murder, armed robbery and tampering with evidence in connection with the killing.

During interviews, prosecutors said Sanchez also admitted to three other killings committed when he was younger.

Those cases, allegedly carried out while he was still a juvenile, remain under investigation. No charges have been filed over those claims, but police are reviewing the alleged admissions closely.

At a detention hearing last week, a judge ordered Sanchez to remain in custody.

In addition to the murder allegations, Sanchez faces separate charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, child abuse and witness intimidation.

Authorities claim that in May he pressed the barrel of a gun to his 7-year-old brother’s forehead and threatened the child not to reveal what happened.

Sanchez has pleaded not guilty to the initial three charges related to Mr Andrus’ death.

His defence attorney reportedly told the court she believed the teenager’s broader confessions were “grandstanding,” suggesting he may have been taking responsibility for crimes committed by others.

Meanwhile, friends and family are struggling to come to terms with the loss of Mr Andrus, who would have celebrated his 31st birthday the weekend after his death. Loved ones described him as a man defined by perseverance, generosity and love of family.

People shared that his friend Oli Rogers said he honoured the milestone by “talking about him to anyone who would listen,” sharing memories and stories that reflected Mr Andrus’ warmth.

Childhood friend Kathryn Thompson said she and her family marked the day by watching his favourite movie and singing his favourite song in an impromptu karaoke celebration.

“He’s severely missed, and he’s a huge part of my heart and life,” she said, adding that his absence had left an irreplaceable gap for those who knew him.

The case continues to shock the Albuquerque community, not only for its brutality but also for the chilling suggestion of additional crimes. Prosecutors say they are determined to uncover the truth of Sanchez’s alleged confessions, while family and friends of Mr Andrus are left clinging to memories of the man they described as devoted, determined and endlessly loving.