The tragic death of a young skateboarder from Illinois has returned to public discourse following the prison release of the man convicted in the case. Josiah Kassahun, a 23-year-old from Wheaton, lost his life in July 2021 after a violent altercation. Former professional skateboarder Terry Kennedy, initially charged with murder, was released from custody on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, after serving time for aggravated battery.
The Fatal Incident and Legal Proceedings
The events that led to Josiah Kassahun's death unfolded on July 27, 2021, at a Comfort Suites Motel in Illinois. During a dispute, Terry Kennedy struck Josiah, causing him to collapse. He was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries four days later, on July 31, 2021. A medical autopsy concluded the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head.
Kennedy initially faced a first-degree murder charge. However, in 2022, a court acquitted him of the murder charge. He was instead found guilty on two counts of aggravated battery, a conviction directly linked to the physical assault that caused Josiah's fatal injuries. According to reports from TMZ in late 2025, Kennedy was scheduled for release on New Year's Eve. He will remain under supervised release until June 30, 2026.
Josiah Kassahun: A Life Celebrated in Skateboarding
Born in 1997, Josiah Kassahun was a beloved figure in his local skateboarding scene. A graduate of Wheaton South High School in 2015, he was a constant presence at the Glenn Ellyn skatepark, where he was known and respected by nearly everyone. Thrasher Magazine described him as “a widely revered and familiar figure” among local skaters.
His friend, Zack Fisher, shared poignant memories with the magazine, highlighting Josiah's charismatic nature. “He was an awesome kid, really one of the best dudes ever,” Fisher said. “He was on a different level of being charismatic. He could have a conversation about anything with anyone at any time.” This warmth and openness defined how he was remembered, turning the skatepark into a community hub.
Aftermath and Lasting Memory
In the wake of Josiah's death, his family pursued a wrongful death lawsuit seeking damages. While the legal chapter involving Terry Kennedy has seen a development with his release, the focus for many has shifted back to celebrating Josiah's life rather than the circumstances of his death.
For the skateboarding community in Illinois and beyond, Josiah Kassahun's legacy is not defined by the tragedy but by his kindness, friendliness, and welcoming spirit at the skatepark. Years after his passing, fellow skateboarders continue to speak of him with deep respect and affection, ensuring his memory lives on in the culture he loved.
