The family of 17-year-old Simeon High School student Jabari Oatis confirmed his passing on Friday following an extensive search, though official details regarding his recovery remain unreleased.
The family of a 17-year-old Chicago teenager missing since late last year has confirmed his tragic passing, bringing a devastating end to a months-long search.
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’s statement, the teenager passed away on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
Jabari Oatis had been the subject of an active Chicago Police Department missing person investigation since December 1, 2025.
Authorities previously issued a public alert after the 17-year-old vanished near Simeon Career Academy High School in the 8100 block of South Vincennes Avenue.
Area Two Special Victims Unit detectives spearheaded search efforts across the South Side for nearly ten months following his disappearance.
Community members and local law enforcement actively pursued leads regarding the student’s whereabouts.
The family statement did not specify whether Jabari had been located prior to September 23 or state the circumstances surrounding his death.
Chicago Police Department officials have not publicly released information regarding when, where, or under what circumstances the teenager was recovered.
The Oatis family expressed deep appreciation for the outpouring of community support, thoughts, and prayers throughout the search.
Family members stated that funeral arrangements and memorial service plans remain pending and will be announced at a later time.
The family requested privacy as they gather together to grieve their loss over the weekend.
