Illinois Teen Actor, 15, Remembered as ‘Joyful’ and ‘Extraordinary’ After Tragic Shooting Incident
Jarod Rhodes was a singer and performer at The Muny and the Center of Creative Arts in St. Louis
A 15-year-old Illinois actor known for his bright spirit and growing talent is being remembered by loved ones and colleagues after a tragic shooting incident at his home. Family members and friends describe him as “joyful,” “kind,” and far beyond his years both on and off camera.
On Friday, Feb. 27, at 7:53 p.m., Belleville Police Department responded to a home for a “report of a subject shot,” according to a press release from police: “Upon officers’ arrival, a juvenile male victim was located in the garage of the residence suffering from a gunshot wound. Officers and EMS immediately provided medical assistance; however, the victim succumbed to his injuries.”
Police did not identify the victim in the press release. They said investigators interviewed “witnesses who were present during the incident,” and, “Based on preliminary findings, the incident does not appear to be intentional, and the Belleville Police Department is not seeking any suspects at this time.” The investigation is still ongoing.
The police added, “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragic event.”
According to local newspaper the Belleville News-Democrat and local outlet KSDK, the victim was identified as 15-year-old Jarod Rhodes by St. Clair County Coroner Calvin Dye Sr. PEOPLE has reached out to the coroner’s office for comment.
Rhodes was a part of The Muny, a theater company in St. Louis, since 2024, the organization shared in a post on Instagram. The teen had taken part in numerous Muny Kids productions in recent years, including Les Misérables, The Little Mermaid, Come From Away and Frozen.
“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,” the theater wrote in its post.
In the comment section, original star from Broadway’s Frozen Patti Murin wrote, “Oh my goodness that sweet boy. I am so, so sorry, and thinking of his family at this impossibly difficult time.”
The young performer was also involved with St. Louis’s Center of Creative Arts (COCA), particularly its Allegro Vocal Company and Musical Theater Family, it shared in an Instagram post. Alongside a photo of Rhodes performing onstage, the center expressed sympathies to his family and all those who loved him.
“Jarod’s talent, dedication, and joyful spirit enriched our community,” the post read. “His presence inspired both peers and faculty alike, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege to know him.”
One of Rhodes’ voice coaches, Phil Woodmore also paid tribute to him on social media, remembering him as a “class clown” whose enthusiastic dancing and singing remains a treasured memory. Rhodes was a hard worker and natural talent, Woodmore wrote.
“It’s hard to put into words what I’m feeling right now as a music educator. Death is never easy, but this one hurts deeply,” Woodmore wrote, adding, “I’m thankful to have had the honor of crossing paths with such an extraordinary young man. Well done, sir.”
