Local News
Voletta Wallace, Mother of The Notorious B.I.G., Passes Away at 72
Her cause of death has been attributed to natural causes.
Voletta Wallace, the mother of legendary rapper The Notorious B.I.G., has passed away at the age of 72.
According to Monroe County Coroner Thomas Yanac, Wallace died on Friday morning in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, while in hospice care.
Her cause of death has been attributed to natural causes.
Wallace dedicated much of her life to preserving and honoring her son’s legacy following his tragic 1997 murder.
As the overseer of Biggie’s estate, she played a crucial role in managing his assets and ensuring that his wealth was passed down to his family, including his daughter, T’yanna Wallace.
Under her stewardship, Biggie’s estate grew significantly, expanding from an estimated $10 million at the time of his death to a current valuation of approximately $160 million.
A steadfast advocate for her son’s legacy, Wallace celebrated Biggie’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and frequently shared updates about his enduring impact on music and culture.
Her social media presence was largely dedicated to her son’s achievements, promoting his foundation, streaming milestones, tribute concerts, and cultural tributes.
In 2009, she played an instrumental role in the release of the biopic “Notorious,” emphasizing the importance of sharing Christopher Wallace’s story with the world.
Born Christopher Wallace, The Notorious B.I.G. was fatally shot in Los Angeles in 1997, just months after the death of fellow rap icon Tupac Shakur.
His mother’s unwavering dedication ensured that his legacy continued to thrive for generations.
Talladega County, Ala. – Authorities have confirmed that a 55-year-old Sylacauga man was killed in an early morning ATV crash after colliding with a deer in Talladega County.
The incident occurred at approximately 2:00 a.m. on Monday, September 29, 2025, on Oakland Road, about two miles west of Sycamore.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division, the victim has been identified as Willie F. Martin.
Investigators reported that Martin was operating a 2020 Yamaha YFZ450 ATV when the vehicle struck a deer in the roadway.
Following the impact, the ATV veered off the road and overturned. Martin was ejected from the vehicle and sustained fatal injuries.
He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Trooper Jaylon James of ALEA confirmed the details of the crash and said that no other vehicles were involved.
The collision remains under investigation by ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division, and no additional information has been released at this time.