Forró Singer Willame Vaqueiro Found Dead at 39 in Sergipe, Brazil

Artist had been missing since the previous day and was found with signs of violence in Neópolis; case remains under investigation

🗓️ 18/03/2026 – 20h00 | 🔄 Updated at 21h30 | ⏱️ 4 min read

Forró singer Willame Vaqueiro was found dead on Tuesday, March 17, in the Betume community area, located in Neópolis, in the state of Sergipe, Brazil. He was 39 years old. The information was confirmed by the Military Police.

According to authorities, the artist had been missing since the previous Monday. His body was found with injuries caused by a machete. The Forensic Medical Institute (IML) and the Criminalistics team were called to the scene to carry out the necessary procedures.

Disappearance and discovery

According to information provided by the Military Police to TV Sergipe, Willame had last been seen the day before his body was found. After search efforts, he was located deceased in a rural area of Neópolis.

The circumstances surrounding the crime have not yet been clarified. Police stated that investigations will continue in order to identify those responsible and determine the motive behind the incident.

Ongoing investigation

The singer’s death is being treated as a case under investigation by the appropriate authorities. So far, there are no official details about suspects or possible leads.

Forensic analysis was conducted at the location where the body was found, and technical reports are expected to help clarify the case. The Military Police emphasized that new information may be released as the investigation progresses.

City hall issues statement

The Neópolis City Hall released an official statement on social media expressing sorrow over the singer’s death and offering condolences to his family.

“In this moment of pain, we stand in solidarity with family members, friends, and admirers, wishing them strength and comfort to overcome this irreparable loss,” the statement said.

The news of Willame’s death caused widespread emotion among residents of the city and the Baixo São Francisco region, where he was well known.

Burial draws local crowd

The singer’s burial took place on the same Tuesday night in the Alto do Santo Antônio community, also in Neópolis. Dozens of people attended the funeral procession, which moved along dirt roads in the area.

Family members, friends, and fans gathered to pay their final respects in a moment marked by sadness and grief.

Willame Vaqueiro’s background

Willame Pereira, known artistically as Willame Vaqueiro, was born in Penedo, in the state of Alagoas. During childhood, he moved to Sergipe with his mother.

He lived in the Tapera community, in Neópolis, and showed musical talent from an early age. At just 7 years old, he already stood out performing “repente” and “toada,” traditional styles of Northeastern Brazilian music.

Throughout his life, he built a career connected to regional music, especially within the forró scene. Willame was also known for taking part in horseback riding events and “vaquejada” competitions, which are traditional in the region.

In addition to his music career, he balanced his artistic work with his job as a cattle herder on farms, an activity that was a strong part of his identity and lifestyle.

Regional impact

The singer’s death had a strong impact on the local community, especially in the Baixo São Francisco region, where he was widely recognized.

On social media, fans, friends, and residents shared farewell messages and tributes, highlighting his simplicity, talent, and deep connection to Northeastern culture.

The case remains under investigation, and authorities are expected to release further updates in the coming days.

Redação UltimaBrasil