The family of Emily Kasanga has filed a lawsuit against Clearbrook, a nonprofit organization operating a group home in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, following Kasanga’s death from choking in April. Kasanga, 34, who lived at the home due to a moderate intellectual disability and other medical conditions, died just days after celebrating her birthday with family.
According to the complaint filed Monday in Cook County Circuit Court, Kasanga suffered a fatal choking incident on April 25 while under the care of the state-licensed group home, which is part of Clearbrook’s network. The suit alleges that Clearbrook and a staff member, direct support professional Joyce Ezunu, failed to adequately supervise Kasanga and did not follow required safety protocols despite known risks.
Kasanga’s family said she had long-standing health issues, including autism, intermittent explosive disorder, seizure disorder, and a moderate intellectual disability, and required constant support. The lawsuit asserts that home staff were aware or should have been aware of Kasanga’s propensity to eat quickly and her heightened risk for choking. The complaint further claims that on the day of her death, Kasanga’s food was not properly prepared or monitored according to her care plan.
The suit specifically faults Ezunu for leaving Kasanga unsupervised while attending to other matters in the home, an action that allegedly contributed to the choking incident. It also states Ezunu failed to intervene promptly or appropriately once the choking was discovered, instead enlisting other residents to perform the Heimlich maneuver before emergency responders arrived. Kasanga was declared dead at the scene that afternoon despite efforts by paramedics and a police officer to save her.
Emily’s younger sister, Ashley Kasanga, who is the lead plaintiff, and other family members have called for improved protections for residents of community-integrated living arrangements (CILAs)—small group homes licensed to serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The lawsuit does not name the State of Illinois as a defendant but includes a broader appeal for stronger oversight of such facilities.
Clearbrook, which managed over 100 similar group homes across Illinois as of 2024, was reported to be in partial compliance with state CILA standards as of August 2025, according to the Illinois Department of Human Services. The organization has not responded publicly to requests for comment. A union representing Clearbrook employees declined to comment, noting it does not participate in individual legal matters. Efforts to contact Ezunu were unsuccessful.
Kasanga’s family described her as a close part of their lives, often included in celebrations and trips despite her disabilities. She was a fan of Disney movies and had fond memories of a family visit to Walt Disney World, where her favorite character was Minnie Mouse. Her siblings emphasize that her death has left a lasting void and expressed a desire for justice and improvements to prevent similar tragedies for others in care.