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ST. LOUIS, Mo. — The St. Louis music and entertainment community is reeling after authorities confirmed that local rapper and reality television personality Jardyn Walker, also known by the stage names J Rok Imb and JROK Peewee, was fatally stabbed early Wednesday morning, January 21, 2026.
The incident brought a tragic end to a swift-moving missing person investigation. Police were led to the Central West End after a missing person’s cellphone was traced to the area just after 1 a.m. Upon arriving at the 4200 block of Olive Street, officers discovered Walker unresponsive with a stab wound to his torso. Despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Walker had been reported missing earlier in University City, prompting a coordinated search by local law enforcement agencies. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department stated the investigation is active and ongoing. As of Thursday, no arrests have been made, and authorities have not released information regarding potential suspects or a motive. They are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The news has sent shockwaves through the city. Walker, a St. Louis native and Riverview Gardens Senior High School graduate, was a rising and charismatic figure known for his energetic performances. He gained broader attention through his role on the first season of the Zeus Network’s Two Ways with Erica Mena and opportunities like auditioning for Bad Boys: Houston.
Friends, collaborators, and fans described him as a passionate, driven artist deeply loyal to his hometown, with ambitions to expand his reach beyond the local scene.
“This is a devastating loss,” a fellow local artist stated. “Jardyn was outspoken and passionate, and he truly believed in his craft. He had a charismatic energy that was building a real following, both here and online. He represented St. Louis with pride and had so much more to give.”
The circumstances of his death have left loved ones and supporters searching for answers while also celebrating his life and the promising future that was cut short. His passing marks a significant loss for the city’s vibrant creative community.
As the investigation continues, authorities ask anyone with information to contact the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.