In a tragic and unsettling case from Chicago, brothers Elijah and Tony Green have been sentenced to over 40 years each for the 2018 murder of their landlord, 76-year-old Vasudeva Kethireddy. The crime, marked by premeditation and brutality, has left a lasting impact on the community and serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers landlords may face.
The Crime
In August 2018, the Green brothers, then 25 and 22 respectively, devised a plan to lure Kethireddy to their apartment under the guise of a maintenance issue. Tony Green contacted Kethireddy, reporting a fictitious leak in their unit. When Kethireddy arrived on August 4, 2018, to address the reported problem, the brothers ambushed him. Elijah Green approached from behind and placed Kethireddy in a chokehold, while Tony Green assisted in subduing him. The assault resulted in Kethireddy’s death by strangulation. Following the murder, the brothers robbed him of $1,600 in cash and his credit cards. In an attempt to conceal their crime, they disposed of his body in a sewer near their residence in the West Englewood neighborhood. Kethireddy’s body remained undiscovered for nearly two months, during which time he was reported missing. The prolonged absence and subsequent discovery of his body shocked the local community.
Investigation and Arrest
The investigation into Kethireddy’s disappearance involved multiple law enforcement agencies. Detectives uncovered evidence indicating the brothers’ involvement, including internet searches on body decomposition and witness testimonies placing them with the victim’s body. These findings led to their arrest shortly after the discovery of Kethireddy’s remains. The premeditated nature of the crime, combined with the efforts to conceal evidence, played a significant role in the legal proceedings that followed.
Legal Proceedings
During the trial, prosecutors presented a compelling case, highlighting the calculated steps taken by the Green brothers to execute their plan. The defense’s arguments were insufficient to counter the overwhelming evidence. In February 2025, the court sentenced Tony Green to 45 years and Elijah Green to 42 years in prison. These sentences reflect the severity of their actions and the profound loss experienced by Kethireddy’s family and the community.
Victim’s Background
Vasudeva Kethireddy, originally from India, was a respected engineer and landlord in Chicago. He was known for his generosity, often providing affordable housing to underserved individuals. His commitment to helping others made him a beloved figure in the community. The senseless nature of his murder has left many grappling with the loss of a man who dedicated his life to uplifting those around him.
Community Impact
The murder of Kethireddy has had a profound impact on the West Englewood neighborhood and the broader Chicago community. Residents have expressed outrage and sorrow over the incident, leading to discussions about tenant-landlord relationships and safety measures. Community leaders have called for increased support for landlords who provide essential services, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and understanding between tenants and property owners.
Broader Implications
This case highlights the potential risks landlords may face, even when acting in good faith to address tenant concerns. It underscores the importance of safety protocols, such as verifying the legitimacy of maintenance requests and, when possible, having a third party present during property visits. Additionally, it brings attention to the necessity of clear communication and trust between landlords and tenants to prevent misunderstandings and potential conflicts.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Vasudeva Kethireddy at the hands of Elijah and Tony Green serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers inherent in landlord-tenant interactions. As the community mourns the loss of a generous and compassionate individual, there is a collective call to action to ensure such incidents are prevented in the future. This includes fostering open communication, implementing safety measures, and promoting mutual respect between landlords and tenants.
