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The tragic death of Jacksonville rapper Lil Poppa has officially been ruled a suicide, according to the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office in Georgia.
On Thursday (Feb. 19), officials confirmed that an autopsy was conducted and concluded that Lil Poppa, born Janarious Mykel Wheeler, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Authorities also confirmed that the CMG/Interscope artist passed away around 11 a.m. on Wednesday (Feb. 18), though his cause of death was not initially disclosed at the time.
The news has sent shockwaves throughout the Hip-Hop community, with artists including Yungeen Ace, Boosie BadAzz, Mozzy, Rob49, and others sharing tributes and condolences online as they mourn the loss of one of rap’s most emotionally transparent voices.
Collective Music Group (CMG), the label Lil Poppa was signed to, released an emotional statement following the confirmation of his passing. “We are stunned and devastated by the loss of our beloved family member Janarious ‘Lil Poppa’ Wheeler,” the statement reads. “Poppa was more than just a talented artist — he was an ambitious young man with depth beyond his years and endless potential. Our love for him knew no bounds.”
Lil Poppa built a strong and loyal fanbase through deeply personal music that reflected his pain, struggles, and growth. His authenticity and vulnerability resonated with listeners, making him one of the most respected young voices to emerge from Jacksonville’s rap scene.
His passing marks a heartbreaking loss for his family, fans, and the culture as a whole.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. You can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or chat via 988lifeline.org to connect with trained counselors. You are not alone.
