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

The trial of Alex Matthew Waggoner, 22, for the second-degree murder of rideshare driver Abdikadir Gedi Shariif began with conflicting accounts of the January 3, 2024, shooting in Edmonds. The prosecution asserts Waggoner shot Shariif after a near-miss incident, while the defense claims self-defense due to perceived threats. Testimonies included police officers and a medical examiner, with Edmonds PD Det. Patrick Clark presenting video evidence 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 the bullet casings matched Waggoner's Taurus firearm. Defense attorney Jeff Wolfenbarger questioned the evidence, suggesting the location of bullet casings may have been altered post-incident. The trial will continue as the jury examines recorded interviews and further forensic findings. This case highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and self-defense claims in Washington State.