Edmonds man sentenced to nearly 20 years for murder of rideshare driver

Alex Matthew Waggoner, 23, was sentenced to nearly 20 years for murdering rideshare driver Abdikadir Gedi Shariif in Edmonds. The incident, which took place on January 3, 2024, involved Waggoner shooting Shariif 11 times after mistaking a cellphone for a gun. A jury found Waggoner guilty on July 16, resulting in a sentence of 235 months, including a gun enhancement. While Shariif's family expressed some satisfaction with the verdict, they felt the sentence was too lenient, arguing for a longer term. Defense attorney Jeff Wolfenbarger advocated for a significantly reduced sentence, citing Waggoner's difficult childhood as a factor.

Judge Richard Okrent also noted the loss of Waggoner's rights during incarceration. The case has sparked discussions about safety and violence in the rideshare industry. Shariif's family described the emotional void left by his absence, emphasizing the personal impact of the crime.