A Tampa family is searching for answers from the Chicago police. They say their loved one, Abnerd Joseph, was killed shortly after moving to Chicago to become an assistant principal.
Chicago police said Joseph was shot multiple times by a neighbor in his luxury high rise apartment building, but family say no charges have been brought.
Joseph would have been 33 years old on Sunday; but instead of celebrating, his family is still fighting for justice in his death.
Temple Crest Park holds a special place in the Joseph family's hearts.
“When he taught me how to play basketball that was the one thing I was better at him at,” Nick Joseph, Joseph’s brother said.
It now serves as a place to reflect.
Family and friends spent Joseph's birthday writing notes on rocks to share what they loved most about Joseph, and tossed them into the Hillsborough River.
Aaron Thomas calls him the full package the best friend a guy could have.
“He was somebody that you could depend on. He was somebody that showed a lot of love and respect. He really showed you that he cared. He didn't just talk about it,” Aaron said.
His family said that's what makes his death so frustrating. Chicago police said Joseph was shot several times in his downtown condo building back in September by another resident. The police report said Joseph was seen pounding on doors and several residents asked him to stop.
According to the report, Joseph also hit the doorman and another tenant; something his family finds hard to believe.
“He didn't live that life, that violent life. Like we never thought one of us would be taken by gun violence,” Jay Charles, Joseph’s brother said.
Police brought the shooter in for questioning, but that person was later released.
“That doesn't sound right. Like no, that's a clear injustice you don't get to take somebody's life who meant that much to people. It's not like he was in a gang or something,” Ashley Joseph, Joseph’s sister said.
The Chicago Police Department said its investigation into the case is still ongoing.
It's still unclear what led up to Joseph's death. That's one of the biggest questions his family is hoping to get answered.