Region Mourns Talented Teen Performer Jarod Rhodes

BELLEVILLE - Jarod Rhodes, a Center of Creative Arts (COCA) voice student and member of the Muny Kids in St. Louis, is remembered fondly on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, for being "a bright light" and his immense contributions in theater and music in his young life.

Rhodes died after he was found with a gunshot wound in a garage in Belleville, Illinois, on Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, authorities said. Belleville Police said preliminary findings indicate the incident “does not appear to be intentional,” and the department is not seeking any suspects as the investigation continues. He was 15 years old and also a Belleville East High School student.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragic event,” Belleville Police said.

The Muny in St. Louis said Rhodes joined the Muny Kids in 2024 and performed in “Les Misérables,” Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” “Come From Away” and Disney’s “Frozen.”

“We are deeply saddened by the recent passing of Jarod Rhodes,” the Muny said. “Jarod will be greatly missed by his Muny family, and we will honor his legacy throughout the upcoming Muny season as we celebrate the joy and light he brought to our stage.”

Rhodes was remembered by Dr. Phil Woodmore of St. Louis, who said Rhodes had been a student in his COCA voice program.

“It’s with a heavy heart that I share the devastating news of the loss of one of my COCA voice students, Jarod Rhodes,” Woodmore said. “Jarod was such a bright light in our COCA Allegro and Musical Theater Family for many years and was a valued member of our team.”

Woodmore described Rhodes as “a hard worker, blessed with an incredible voice and a playful spirit that lit up every space at COCA,” adding, “He touched so many communities through his involvement in the arts.”

Woodmore also shared a memory from a Christmas concert: “My favorite will always be his overwhelming enthusiasm singing the tenor part on ‘Fruitcake’ during my Christmas concert.”

Woodmore offered condolences to Rhodes’ family.

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