STORY YOUMISSED
EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this report referenced a December 2025 missing person alert issued for Jabari Oatis. Following additional verification, this article has been updated to clarify that Jabari returned to school shortly after the initial notice, completed his senior year, and successfully graduated from Simeon High School in May 2026.
The family and school community of a 17-year-old Chicago teenager are mourning his passing following a social media announcement shared by his family.
Eldrin Oatis announced the death of Jabari Oatis in a social media message shared on Friday, September 25, 2026.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved son on September 23, 2026.
“We are deeply saddened by this immense loss, and our family appreciates your thoughts and prayers.
“We do not have dates and plans set yet, and we will share updates as they are made.
We kindly ask for your understanding as we step away to be alone together this weekend to grieve privately.”
According to the family statement, the teenager passed away on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
Jabari Oatis attended Simeon Career Academy High School located in the 8100 block of South Vincennes Avenue on Chicago’s South Side.
School educators and community members remembered Jabari as a respectful student who completed his spring semester and successfully graduated from high school in May 2026.
Authorities previously issued a missing person alert for Jabari in December 2025, which was later closed prior to his return to school and graduation in May 2026.
The family has not publicly released the cause or circumstances surrounding his passing and has asked for privacy to grieve.
The family expressed deep appreciation for the outpouring of community support, thoughts, and prayers during this difficult time.
Family members stated that funeral arrangements and memorial service plans remain pending and will be announced at a later date.
The Oatis family requested privacy as they gather together to grieve their loss over the weekend.
