In a tragic turn of events, Abnerd Joseph, a 32-year-old former assistant principal from Atlanta, was killed on September 14, 2023. The incident did not take place in Atlanta, but rather in a high-rise apartment building in Chicago, where he had recently moved for a new job. Joseph, who was known for his dedication to his students at KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools, had taken on a new role as the assistant principal of culture at Intrinsic Schools' downtown campus in Chicago.
On the evening
of his death, Joseph was reportedly experiencing emotional distress in the hallway of his apartment building. According to his family's attorneys, he had recently switched medication for ADHD. Witnesses reported that he was knocking on doors and asking for help, expressing concerns for his safety. The situation escalated when a 45-year-old neighbor, a concealed-carry license holder, became involved. An altercation occurred, resulting in the neighbor shooting Joseph multiple times. Joseph was unarmed at the time of the shooting. He was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The 45-year-old neighbor who shot Joseph was taken into police custody but was released without any criminal charges being filed. The shooter claimed to have acted in self-defense, a claim that Joseph's family disputes. The family has been actively seeking justice for Abnerd, holding vigils and marches in both Atlanta and Chicago to keep his memory alive and demand accountability. They have publicly questioned why no charges have been brought against the shooter, especially when, according to them, there is significant evidence. The family has also filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the shooter, the building's management, and others, alleging negligence in their response to Joseph's mental health crisis.
The investigation into Abnerd Joseph's death remains ongoing, according to the Chicago Police Department and the Cook County State's Attorney's Office. His family continues to advocate for a thorough investigation and for criminal charges to be filed, honoring the memory of a man they describe as a compassionate and selfless individual who had a positive impact on many lives.
