ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico – An 18-year-old accused of randomly murdering an Uber driver earlier this month is now facing new charges after prosecutors say he threatened his 7-year-old half-brother with a gun back in May.
New Allegations Surface
The Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office announced on Aug. 14 that Sheliky Sanchez has been charged with:
Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon
Child abuse
Witness intimidation
These charges stem from a previously unreported incident in May that surfaced while investigators looked into the Aug. 7 shooting death of Uber driver Joseph Andrus.
Prosecutors allege that Sanchez, while intoxicated, pointed a gun at his younger brother’s head and threatened him, reportedly telling the boy “not to tell.” Officials have not clarified what led to the threat.
Judge Calls Allegations Disturbing
During a detention hearing on Wednesday, Judge Brett Loveless said:
“Holding a firearm to the head of a 7-year-old child is violent and clearly was disturbing to the alleged victim.”
Loveless ordered that Sanchez remain in custody until trial.
Uber Driver’s Murder Case
Sanchez was already being held on a first-degree murder charge after allegedly shooting Uber driver Joseph Andrus on Aug. 7. Police say Sanchez admitted to the killing, telling investigators he did it because he wanted to “let off steam” from stress and frustration.
The Uber case drew widespread attention for its random and senseless nature, with Andrus described as a hardworking man whose life ended without warning.
Possible Claims of Past Killings
During questioning, Sanchez allegedly told police he had killed three other people when he was a juvenile, though investigators stressed these claims remain unverified and are still under review.
Community Shock and Ongoing Investigation
The new child abuse allegations have deepened community concern about Sanchez’s violent behavior. Prosecutors say his actions demonstrate a pattern of escalating violence, making him a continued threat to public safety.
He will remain in custody as authorities pursue both the murder case and the new child abuse charges.
This case has left New Mexico residents shaken, with officials highlighting the need for thorough investigation into both Sanchez’s past and present actions. For now, his trial awaits, and the families of those affected are left grappling with grief and fear.
