Professional skateboarder Terry Kennedy has finally spoken out following his release from prison.
He shared a public apology to the loved ones of Josiah Kassahun and reflected on what he describes as the darkest chapter of his life.
As previously reported, TK was jailed after an altercation with his close homie.
The fight resulted in Kassahun hitting his head on the ground. He was taken to the hospital but passed away a few days later due to the severity of his injuries.
The "Compton Ass Terry" star was originally charged with murder, but the court later cleared him of that charge.
READ MORE: Pro Skater Terry Kennedy Acquitted of Murdering Fellow Skater But Convicted of Battery
He was instead found guilty of aggravated battery and sentenced to five years. During his time behind bars, TK converted to Islam and has said that his faith and belief in Allah helped guide him toward personal change.
Those close to him say he has been trying to process everything that happened and rebuild his life slowly.
Now, TK has released a statement addressing the situation directly.
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In his message, he first spoke to Kassahun’s family and friends, offering a direct apology.
He acknowledged the pain caused by his actions and said he knows there is nothing he can say that will ever make things right.
He shared that the weight of what happened is something he carries with him and that he is committed to living differently because of it.
The 40 year old also thanked those who have continued to support him, including his family and fans. He admitted that even before prison, he was dealing with personal struggles that he did not know how to handle.
As a brother in Islam, he said the years he spent incarcerated forced him to confront himself in ways he never had before.
At the moment, TK says his focus is on healing and getting his mind in a better place.
He explained that when he feels ready, he plans to sit down for interviews and eventually release a documentary that tells his story honestly, without excuses, and shows who he is trying to become.
He also mentioned his hope to return to skateboarding in the future, but noted that if he does, it will be done with humility and respect.
While reactions online have been mixed, TK’s statement is the first time he has publicly addressed the tragedy since his release.
He appears focused on accountability, personal growth, and taking things one step at a time.
Terry Kennedy Posted:
"Gratitude
First I want to speak directly to Josiah Kassahun's family and everyone who loved him. I am deeply sorry for the pain my actions caused and for the loss you've had to live with. I know there's nothing I can say that will ever make that right, but I want you to hear this from me: I carry that weight, and I'm committed to living differently because of it.
To my supporters, my fans, and my family, thank you for still caring about me through the darkest period of my life. Before prison, I was already struggling in ways I didn't know how to handle, and the last few years forced me to face myself.
Right now I'm focusing on healing and getting my mind right. When I'm in a better headspace, I plan to sit down for interviews and release a documentary, honest, no excuses, and what I'm trying to become. And I'm working toward getting back on my board, the right way, with humility and purpose."