15-Year-Old Charged as Adult in Fatal Carjacking of Uber Driver in Georgia

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — A 15-year-old boy has been charged as an adult with murder following the fatal carjacking and shooting of a 58-year-old Uber driver on New Year's Day, authorities said Friday.

The victim, identified as Cesar Tejada of Grayson, was found dead from at least one gunshot wound in the 600 block of Groveland Parkway around 5:20 a.m. on January 1, 2026, according to the Lawrenceville Police Department.Investigators believe Tejada was carjacked during a ride, shot, and his body dumped in the roadway. Ring doorbell camera footage captured a black SUV stopping at the scene, where the victim's body was apparently unloaded before the vehicle drove away.

Using investigative technology and the footage, police tracked Tejada's SUV to a residence on Hardwood Circle in nearby Lilburn later that afternoon. There, officers arrested 15-year-old Christian Simmons of Lilburn. Simmons is being prosecuted as an adult under Georgia law.

Police described the incident as a carjacking with no indication of an argument between the driver and passenger. The motive appears tied to the vehicle theft.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the Tejada family during this incredibly difficult time," police said in a statement, noting that Tejada was working as an Uber driver to support his family.

Uber issued a statement expressing sadness over the loss: "We’re saddened by this devastating loss, and our condolences go out to the driver’s family during this incredibly difficult time. We’ve been in contact with the Lawrenceville Police Department to help support their investigation."

The company added that it has banned the account associated with the ride and is cooperating fully with authorities.The investigation remains ongoing, with no additional charges announced at this time. Simmons is currently in custody.

17GEN4.com