Chicago, Illinois – The family of a beloved assistant principal from Chicago has filed a lawsuit alleging negligence and wrongful death after he was tragically shot and killed by a neighbor in his luxury apartment building in downtown Chicago last year. Abnerd Joseph, a 32-year-old Atlanta native, was the assistant principal at Intrinsic High School in downtown Chicago.
Although no criminal charges were ever filed in his death, the incident has left Joseph’s family grappling with the heartbreaking loss and seeking justice for what they believe was a senseless tragedy. The fatal shooting occurred on September 14, 2023, when Joseph was shot multiple times by a neighbor in his apartment building.
The lawsuit claims that the building’s owners, management, security, and the neighbor who fired the fatal shots are all liable for Joseph’s death, as they allegedly responded inappropriately to Joseph’s behavior leading up to the shooting. The family’s attorneys dispute the police’s characterization of the events and argue that the response to Joseph’s actions was extreme, especially considering the circumstances.
According to the police report, Joseph was behaving erratically on the night of the shooting, prompting neighbors to check on him. One neighbor, who held a concealed carry license, attempted to calm Joseph down but ultimately fired his weapon when Joseph charged at him. The neighbor claimed self-defense and was released without charges.
Joseph’s family insists that he was not a violent person and was simply undergoing an emotional distress event at the time of the shooting. They have expressed disbelief at the neighbor’s release and continue to seek answers and justice for Joseph’s untimely death.
The family plans to subpoena surveillance video footage of the shooting to gather more information about the tragic event. Despite their ongoing efforts, authorities have classified the case as an open investigation, leaving Joseph’s family anxiously awaiting further developments.
Described as a dedicated educator by his former students and colleagues, Joseph was remembered as a kind, attentive, and supportive figure who went above and beyond for his students. His sudden and senseless death has left a void in the community and among those who knew him, with many expressing shock and heartbreak over the loss of such a promising and beloved individual.
As the investigation into Joseph’s death continues, his family remains steadfast in their pursuit of justice and closure, determined to ensure that his memory is honored and that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.