Two brothers from Chicago, Elijah Green (31) and Tony Green (28), have been sentenced to more than 40 years in prison for the murder of their landlord, Vasudevareddy Kethireddy. The crime took place nearly seven years ago in 2018.
Landlord Missing for Two Months
Kethireddy, who was 76 years old, had been missing for almost two months before his body was discovered in a sewer in the Englewood neighborhood in September 2018. Authorities confirmed that he had been strangled to death.
Lured into a Trap
Prosecutors revealed that the Green brothers owed rent money to Kethireddy. In August 2018, they tricked him into coming to their apartment by claiming they had a water leak. Their real plan, however, was to rob him.
Once inside, they attacked Kethireddy, stole over $1,600 in cash, and later used his credit cards.
Arrest and Sentencing
After police found Kethireddy’s body, the Green brothers were arrested within days. They were convicted of first-degree murder in August 2023. This week, a Cook County judge sentenced Tony Green to 47 years in prison and Elijah Green to 45 years.
Family’s Heartbreak
Kethireddy’s son, Shantan, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of his father. He described the murder as a “senseless act” and said his father would have willingly given the money if asked.
The family never stopped searching for Kethireddy while he was missing. His grandchildren kept asking where he was, making the situation even more painful.
Kethireddy’s Legacy
Originally from India, Kethireddy moved to Chicago over 40 years ago. He grew up in a poor neighborhood but worked hard to provide housing for people in the underserved Englewood area. His family said he was proud to help others find a place to live.
The tragic case serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the devastating effects of violence.