Abnerd Joseph, 32, was killed on September 14, 2023, in the hallway of a high-rise apartment building in downtown Chicago where he had recently moved for a new job. Joseph, a former assistant principal at KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools who had taken a role as assistant principal of culture with Intrinsic Schools in Chicago, was reportedly experiencing emotional distress and knocking on doors asking for help. Family attorneys say he had recently changed ADHD medication.

A 45-year-old neighbor who held a concealed-carry license became involved and during an altercation shot Joseph multiple times. Joseph was unarmed, was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, and was pronounced dead. The neighbor was taken into custody and later released without criminal charges; the shooter asserted self-defense, a claim the family disputes. The family has held vigils and filed a wrongful death lawsuit naming the shooter, the building’s management, and others, alleging negligence in responding to Joseph’s mental health crisis. The Chicago Police Department and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office say the investigation is ongoing.

If anyone in Chicago knew Joseph, saw the hallway incident, or has information about what happened that night, please share what is known.