Trial continues for Edmonds man accused in 2024 shooting of rideshare driver

The trial of Alex Matthew Waggoner, charged with second-degree murder in the shooting of rideshare driver Abdikadir Gedi Shariif, progressed in Snohomish County Superior Court on July 15, 2025. Prosecutors argue Waggoner shot Shariif after a near-collision at an intersection, while the defense claims he acted in self-defense. Officer Brittany Ovens and Det. Cpl. Robert Allen provided testimony regarding the crime scene and evidence collection, including bullet trajectories and video footage from Waggoner's apartment.

Medical examiner Micheline Lubin confirmed the cause of death as a gunshot wound to the head, categorizing it as homicide. Forensic scientist Dijana Coric testified that bullet casings were linked to Waggoner's Taurus pistol, which he was carrying during his arrest. Defense attorney Jeff Wolfenbarger raised questions about the positioning of the bullet casings, suggesting they might have been damaged post-shooting. The trial is set to resume on Tuesday, allowing time for further witness testimonies and examination of recorded interviews. This case highlights the complexities of self-defense claims in violent encounters.