Jeavon “UnkleMehn” Sasso Has Died. His Voice and Vision Defined Eras of Virgin Islands Music

The Virgin Islands is mourning the loss of Jeavon Sasso, known to fans as Sasso, Uncle Sasso, and UnkleMehn, who died after being removed from life support. The VIPD has not yet confirmed the exact date or time of death, though it is believed to have occurred yesterday. He was critically injured on Sept. 8 in a two-vehicle collision along the Rhymer Highway near the KLR entrance on St. Thomas. He was 42.

Police said both vehicles involved came to rest in the roadway, with one overturning. Several people were transported to the Schneider Regional Medical Center for treatment. According to the VIPD Director of Communications Glen Dratte, Sasso was among those injured and had been placed on life support before his passing Wednesday evening. The case remains under investigation by the V.I. Police Department’s Traffic Investigation Bureau.

Sasso’s death has left a deep void in the Virgin Islands’ entertainment scene. A prolific vocalist, he rose to prominence with Poizon Band before continuing his legacy with Karnage Band, bringing unmatched energy and powerful stage presence to village nights, festival stages, and Carnival celebrations. His versatility across soca, calypso, bouyon, and fusion made him a defining force who helped shape the sound of modern Virgin Islands music.

His accomplishments are woven through recent Carnival history and credited recordings. Karnage’s 2023 release “Shake Up” was crowned the St. Thomas Carnival Road March song of the year, a benchmark moment in the local musical calendar. Sasso is credited as a songwriter on “Shake Up,” which speaks to his creative role behind one of the season’s signature anthems.