The rap community continues to grieve the sudden loss of Lil Poppa (real name Janarious Mykel Wheeler), the Jacksonville, Florida-born artist who passed away at just 25 years old. Confirmed reports from the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office detail that he died on February 18, 2026, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, officially ruled a suicide.

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The tragedy unfolded in the Atlanta area, where he was pronounced dead at 11:23 a.m. ET. This comes mere days after he dropped his new single “Out of Town Bae” on February 13, fueling widespread shock among fans who had followed his rising career under Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group (CMG) since 2022.

Lil Poppa’s music often delved into personal pain, resilience, and street realities, with standout tracks like “Love & War,” “Mind Over Matter,” and projects from his Under Investigation series earning him a loyal following. His vulnerability resonated deeply, making the resurfacing of his final social media posts even more poignant.

In one widely shared clip from weeks earlier, he spoke about finding peace after one more album. Another featured Rod Wave’s “Letting It Go,” with fans now seeing these as subtle indicators of his struggles. Posts like “Don’t wanna…” have sparked heartbreaking discussions online about missed signs and the pressures artists face.

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Recent performance shots capture Lil Poppa in his element—energetic, charismatic, and fully engaged with crowds during his November 2024 shows, including at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.

These vibrant images stand in stark contrast to the somber news, highlighting the young talent’s stage presence and the bright future many believed he had ahead, including scheduled March 2026 performances.

Tributes have flooded in from peers like Yungeen Ace, Boosie Badazz, Mozzy, and Rob49, alongside statements from CMG honoring him as family. Fans remember his early start rapping at age 7 in church before evolving into raw, introspective hip-hop. “Florida lost a real one,” one mourner posted, echoing sentiments across social media.

His death amplifies urgent conversations about mental health in the music industry, where success often masks silent battles with trauma and isolation. Prevention resources, including hotlines, have been shared widely in his memory.

Lil Poppa’s legacy endures through his discography—emotional, authentic, and impactful. As the industry mourns, his story serves as a reminder to check on loved ones and seek help when needed.

Rest in peace, Janarious Mykel Wheeler. Your music touched countless lives and will continue to do so. 🕊️