CHICAGO, IL – A grim chapter has closed for the family and friends of Vasudeva Kethireddy, a Chicago landlord whose murder sent shockwaves through the community. Nearly six years after his untimely death, justice has been served with the sentencing of two brothers convicted of his murder.
Elijah Green, 31, and Tony Green, 28, have been handed lengthy prison terms for the 2018 slaying of Kethireddy, a 76-year-old landlord who went missing in August of that year.
The duo, who lived in one of Kethireddy’s rental properties, concocted a plan to lure him to their apartment under the guise of a maintenance issue, ultimately leading to his death.
Kethireddy’s disappearance was a painful mystery for his family until his body was discovered a month later in a sewer. His family described him as a devoted father and grandfather who immigrated from India over four decades ago to build a life in America, embracing his role as a provider for tenants with seriousness and pride.
During the trial, prosecutors painted a chilling picture of the events, detailing how the brothers, reportedly behind on rent, resorted to crime.
Elijah Green was said to have strangled Kethireddy from behind after they coaxed him into their residence. The motive was robbery, and they left no room for ambiguity—the brothers stole $1,600 in cash along with Kethireddy’s credit cards.
Shockingly, the brothers allowed Kethireddy’s body to remain in their vehicle for a day before disposing of it in a nearby sewer. Their callousness extended beyond the act; they subsequently used his credit cards in the aftermath of the murder.
The investigation unveiled disturbing evidence, including a witness who overheard the brothers discussing their murderous scheme. Furthermore, another witness testified about the brothers’ online search using Tony’s cellphone to find out how long it would take for a body to decompose in sewer water.
The sentencing, which came down on February 19, imposes 47 years in prison for Tony Green and 45 years for Elijah Green. This verdict ends an emotionally draining period for those affected, leaving a community to mourn yet to heal from the tragedy of losing Kethireddy, a man remembered for his kindness and a life dedicated to serving others.