Rapper Lil Poppa born Janarious Mykel Wheeler has died at the age of 25, officials confirmed on February 18, 2026 in Fulton County, Georgia. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office says the cause and manner of his death are still under investigation, with no official determination released yet. 

Lil Poppa rose from Jacksonville’s hip-hop scene with a raw, introspective style that earned him a devoted following. He first broke through with tracks like “Purple Hearts”, which reflected his personal experiences and emotional honesty, and went on to release several projects, including Almost Normal Again in August 2025. He was signed to Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group (CMG) and had collaborations with major artists within the rap community. 

Just five days before his death, Lil Poppa dropped his new single “Out of Town Bae”, sparking buzz for a spring project and an upcoming performance in New Orleans that was scheduled for March. Fans and peers have expressed shock and sadness, sharing tributes on social media as news spread of his passing. 

Though details are limited and the investigation continues, the loss of Lil Poppa has resonated deeply with listeners who connected with his candid lyrics and storytelling  a reminder of the fragility of life even as his music was reaching new heights.