The Crime

In February 2022, Calvin Crew requested an Uber ride using an account belonging to his then-girlfriend. Christina Spicuzza picked him up in Allegheny County. Shortly after the ride began, dashcam footage revealed Crew, masked and dressed in dark clothing, pulling a gun on Spicuzza from the back seat. The footage captured Spicuzza pleading for her life, expressing concern for her four children. Despite her desperate pleas, Crew kept her at gunpoint and eventually removed the dashcam when he realized it was recording. Two days later, Spicuzza’s body was discovered in a wooded area in Monroeville, with a fatal gunshot wound to the head.

The Investigation and Trial

Authorities quickly gathered a significant amount of digital and physical evidence against Crew. This included dashcam video, GPS data, Uber records, Crew’s fingerprint, and surveillance footage that contradicted his alibi. A text message sent by Crew to his girlfriend after the murder further implicated him in the crime. After a four-day trial, a jury found Crew guilty of first-degree murder and several other charges. Under Pennsylvania law, a first-degree murder conviction carries a mandatory life sentence without parole.

The Sentencing

During the sentencing hearing, Crew chose not to appear in the courtroom, remaining in his cell instead. His defense attorney argued that Crew’s difficult upbringing, marked by violence, neglect, and intellectual challenges, should be considered as mitigating factors. However, the judge and jury were not swayed by these arguments.

Victim impact statements from Spicuzza’s family were emotional and direct. Her mother reminded the court that the only reason Crew was spared the death penalty was due to the family’s request, which was rooted in Christina’s beliefs. Spicuzza’s fiancé also addressed the court, describing the devastating impact of her loss on their family and expressing disappointment that Crew did not attend the sentencing.

In addition to life without parole for murder, Crew received an additional 13 to 26 years for kidnapping and robbery.

Aftermath

Crew maintains his innocence and has indicated plans to appeal the conviction. The case has left a lasting impact on the Pittsburgh community and highlights the risks faced by gig workers. Christina Spicuzza’s family continues to mourn her loss, remembering her as a devoted mother who worked hard to provide for her children.

Key Points:

• Calvin Crew, 25, sentenced to life without parole for the 2022 murder of Uber driver Christina Spicuzza.
• The crime was captured on dashcam, showing Crew holding Spicuzza at gunpoint as she pleaded for her life.
• Spicuzza’s family requested Crew be spared the death penalty.
• Crew was also sentenced to additional years for kidnapping and robbery, and he plans to appeal his conviction.