Dj Daniel: Viral death rumors debunked after social posts claim February 23, 2026 passing
Rumors that dj daniel had died on February 23, 2026 spread across X, Threads and other platforms in recent days, prompting widespread tributes — but those reports have been confirmed to be false.
Posts used monochrome images and a clear date
Social posts circulated monochrome images with a message that read: 'R. I. P Devarjaye 'DJ' Daniel, a brave 13-year-old American boy known for his battle with brain and spinal cancer, has been announced by his family to have passed away on February 23, 2026. ' The posts prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and well-wishers nationwide.
Family and official channels have not announced a death
DJ Daniel's official social media channels and his family have not made any announcements confirming a death. A post shared by Devarjaye Daniel (@devarjaye_) remains on Instagram; his most recent update there, dated February 15, shows him continuing his usual activities with no indication of life-threatening developments.
Verified accounts pushed back — Nick Sortor said he is alive
Several verified accounts moved to dispel the rumor. Nick Sortor of Turning Point USA tweeted that DJ Daniel is alive, and other users on X highlighted the spread of misinformation and urged people not to share unverified posts. One user wrote, 'Either these accounts are too lazy to fact-check, or they’re desperate for views. Whichever it is, please stop—you look foolish. '
Dj Daniel's story: Pearland boy diagnosed in 2018 who beat prognosis
Devarjaye "DJ" Daniel, a native of Pearland, Texas, was diagnosed with terminal brain and spinal cancer in 2018; doctors gave him just five months to live. He defied that prognosis and set out on a mission to be sworn in as an honorary officer by as many law enforcement agencies as possible after police helped his family when they were displaced by Hurricane Harvey.
Honors include more than 1, 300 agencies and a March 2025 Secret Service recognition
Over the years DJ Daniel has been honored by more than 1, 300 agencies nationwide. In March 2025, former President Donald Trump, during a joint address to Congress, directed the Secret Service to officially make DJ an honorary agent, making him the youngest person ever to receive that distinction. The ceremony included the presentation of a badge and credentials and earned a standing ovation from members of both parties. Following that recognition, DJ visited the Secret Service training center and took part in other honorary ceremonies, including a swearing-in as deputy mayor for public safety in New York City, and continued to advocate for children battling serious illnesses.
The false reports about his death have sparked a broader conversation about the dangers of viral misinformation on social media.
It is unclear in the provided context what, if any, next public events are scheduled for Devarjaye 'DJ' Daniel.
