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By Hollie Silverman and Joshua Rhett Miller
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Lil Poppa, the Jacksonville, Florida, rapper born Janarious Mykel Wheeler, died in Georgia at age 25, the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office told Newsweek in an email Wednesday.
"His manner and cause of death are pending investigation," Brian Jost Reents, senior medical examiner investigator, said in the email.
The artist, known for tracks including “Love & War,” “Mind Over Matter,” and “HAPPY TEARS,” released a new single titled “Out of Town Bae” just days before his death, TMZ reported.
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Why it Matters
Lil Poppa emerged from Jacksonville’s hip-hop scene with emotionally candid storytelling.
His death at 25 reverberated across fans and the industry, particularly because it followed closely after the release of new music and ahead of a planned performance next month.
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Lil Poppa Dead: What We Know
Born March 18, 2000, in Jacksonville, Lil Poppa built a following with the “Under Investigation” mixtape series and later with nationally recognized singles.
Fans of the Florida native posted comments on his Instagram page on Wednesday seeking clarity regarding his death.
“Poppa tell me it ain’t true,” one user wrote.
His most recent album, Almost Normal Again, was released in August.
“Out of Town Bae,” his latest single, arrived on February 13, 2026, five days before his death.
He was slated to perform in New Orleans next month, according to reports.
Roughly 12 hours before his death was confirmed publicly, Lil Poppa posted an Instagram Story showing lyrics from Rod Wave’s song “Letting It Go,” including, “You know what happened / I know what happened / world never will.” Yahoo reported the post and included additional lyrics visible in the clip.
When was Lil Poppa Signed to Yo Gotti's Music Group?
Lil Poppa signed to Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group (CMG) during his rise from Jacksonville’s scene to a broader national audience.
Outlets reported that he joined CMG in 2022 as part of a partnership that included Interscope Records.
What People Are Saying
Rapper Boosie said in a video message posted on X: "TIP, thug in peace, Lil Poppa...Duvall legend."
Kaine Victory Johnson, a medical lab scientist and health writer, said in a post on X: "A mother should never have to bury her child. Lil Poppa’s impact was real, and his voice will be missed. Keeping his loved ones in my thoughts."
What Happens Next
Authorities had not released a cause of death as of publication. Outlets reported that the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office was handling the case and that findings would be released upon completion of standard procedures.
Industry and label statements, memorial details, and any updates on scheduled performances or future releases were not yet announced publicly.
Update 2/18/26 6:03 p.m. ET: This story has been updated with more information.
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