Josiah Kassahun was a 23-year-old skateboarder from Wheaton, Illinois, whose life ended after a violent incident in July 2021. The case returned to public attention after former professional skateboarder Terry Kennedy was released from prison on Wednesday, December 31, following his conviction for aggravated battery. The incident happened at a hotel in Illinois. Josiah Kassahun was hurt during a dispute and was taken to the hospital. He died four days later, on July 31, 2021. An autopsy later said he died due to blunt force injuries to the head.At first, Terry Kennedy faced a first-degree murder charge. In 2022, a court acquitted him of murder. However, he was found guilty on two counts of aggravated battery. According to Daily Herald, the conviction was linked to the physical attack that led to Josiah’s injuries. In late 2025, TMZ reported that Terry Kennedy was set to be released on New Year’s Eve. The outlet also confirmed he will stay on supervised release until June 30, 2026.
Josiah Kassahun remembered by the skateboarding community after Terry Kennedy case
Josiah Kassahun was born in 1997 and grew up in Wheaton, Illinois. He graduated from Wheaton South High School in 2015. Friends say skateboarding was a big part of his life. He spent many days at the Glenn Ellyn skatepark and was known by almost everyone there.According to Thrasher Magazine, Josiah was “a widely revered and familiar figure” in the local skate scene. Years after his death, skateboarders still talk about him with deep respect.One of his close friends, Zack Fisher, shared a heartfelt memory while speaking to Thrasher. He said, “He was an awesome kid, really one of the best dudes ever.” Fisher also spoke about Josiah’s nature, adding, “He was on a different level of being charismatic. He could have a conversation about anything with anyone at any time.”The incident that led to Josiah’s death happened on July 27, 2021, at the Comfort Suites Motel. Court records stated that Terry Kennedy struck Josiah during a dispute. Josiah collapsed and was later taken to the hospital. Despite medical care, he did not survive.After Josiah’s death, his family filed a wrongful death lawsuit and sought damages. While Terry Kennedy was cleared of the murder charge, the aggravated battery conviction remained. His release from prison has brought renewed focus on Josiah’s life, not just the case.For many skateboarders, Josiah Kassahun is remembered not for how he died, but for how he lived, kind, friendly, and always welcoming at the skatepark.Also Read: Valentino Rossi And Francesca Sofia Novello Combined Net Worth: How Much The MotoGP Icon And Italian Model Earn Together
