Local News
Jeavon “UnkleMehn” Sasso, U.S. Virgin Islands Artist, Dies After Crash
Jeavon Sasso, also known as “UnkleMehn,” a U.S. Virgin Islands artist and former member of the Awesome Jam Band and the Karnage Band, has died following a car crash earlier this week, according to reports from The Virgin Islands Daily News and The Source.
Sasso, whose music blended soca, calypso, bouyon and electronic dance influences, was widely recognized across the territory’s music scene. News of his death prompted tributes from fans and fellow musicians, many of whom remembered him for his stage presence and contributions to the Carnival circuit.
The crash occurred late Monday night on Rhymer Highway near the KLR entrance in St. Thomas. Police said one of the vehicles overturned and that speed may have been a factor. A woman injured in the crash was hospitalized at Roy Lester Schneider Regional Medical Center.
Sasso, who was initially placed on a ventilator after the collision, was later removed from life support. His passing has drawn condolences from across the Virgin Islands community, with supporters reflecting on his role in shaping the region’s contemporary music identity. Local musicians also shared personal tributes.
Steve Parillon of Yolo Promotions said, “Where do angels go when they die? Nobody knows. On behalf of the Yolo Promotions team we extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Jeavon ‘Unkle Mehnn’ Sasso. A legend in his own right who created his own path and entertained generations after generations! Until we meet again, sing in peace, Sasso.”
On Facebook, Jougo of Homegrown Studio wrote, “I’m lost for words right now. Rest in peace my brother, love always. #unklmehn #sasso #loveyou.”
Mac Milli also recalled performing alongside Sasso: “We didn’t even have to see you … your voice alone let everyone know who it was. TB to Juvay morning east end alongside The Association & Friends … we had a blast mehn, so much fun. Memories is all we got! You will be deeply missed. Keep singing in heaven. #Legend #UnkleSasso.”
Authorities said the investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
The Civil Registry and Passport Office has announced an increase in fees for United Kingdom passports, effective April 8, 2026.
According to the office, the revised fees apply to new, renewal and replacement passport applications, as well as other related services.
Under the new structure, the cost for a new, renewal or replacement adult passport has been set at £116.50, while the fee for a child passport is £75.50. Adult frequent traveller passports will cost £130.50, and child frequent traveller passports £89.50.
The fee for changes to an existing passport will also be £116.50. In addition, a delivery fee of £14.32 will apply.
The Civil Registry and Passport Office advised that the updated fees are now in effect and apply to all relevant applications submitted on or after April 8.
A bill proposing wide-ranging changes to the Virgin Islands’ electoral system was introduced in the House of Assembly today, Tuesday, April 22, by Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley.
The proposed Elections (Amendment) Act, 2026, is based on consultations with stakeholders and recommendations from observer missions, as well as input from the Deputy Governor’s Office and the Office of the Supervisor of Elections.
“This is the Elections Amendment Act 2026, following extensive deliberations with a number of entities, including a committee of the House who looked at recommendations of various observer missions that came to The Virgin Islands,” Hon. Wheatley said during the continuation of the Second Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly.
He said the bill also builds on work undertaken by the previous House of Assembly. “Also, the last House of Assembly looked at a number of recommendations that were forwarded through the Deputy Governor’s Office and the Office of the Supervisor of Elections,” he said.
Hon. Wheatley said the proposed amendments were developed through discussions on changes to the Elections Act. “We had very extensive discussions about amendments to the Elections Act, and of course, those recommendations were used to make this Amendment Act. This received its first reading some time ago, and now we are here to debate this Elections Act, so that it can therefore become law,” he said.
The bill introduces several reforms to the electoral framework, including expanded access to voting through mobile and curbside options for individuals with physical limitations and the formal use of assistive technologies for voters with disabilities.
It also provides for the establishment of a Department of Elections and an Elections Advisory Committee to oversee voter registration and election administration.
Additional provisions include a formal Code of Conduct for political parties and candidates, along with new rules governing campaign donations and political financing.
The legislation also proposes restrictions on the announcement of major public grants or projects shortly before an election, aimed at addressing potential incumbency advantages.
The bill has already received its first reading and is expected to be referred to a committee when the House of Assembly resumes on April 30, 2026, at 10 a.m., where it will undergo further review as part of the legislative process.
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