Rapper Luci4 Found Dead in LA

Family say 23-year-old died at friend's house; his wallet was reportedly found empty.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Rapper Luci4, whose track "BodyPartz" became a TikTok staple, has died in Los Angeles at age 23. The LA County Medical Examiner confirmed the death of the artist, born James Dear, though a cause has not been determined. His grandparents told TMZ he died on Sunday at a friend's home in the city, and they say they're unsettled by what they've learned so far, including that his wallet was found emptied.

Why it matters

Luci4, also known as Axxturel, was regarded as an early figure in the online microgenre sigilkore, a form of trap music that combines electronic and cloud rap. He had recently signed with Atlantic Records after "BodyPartz" went viral and was certified gold, and he had dropped several new singles this year, making his sudden death at a young age particularly tragic for the music community.

The details

The Los Angeles Fire Department says crews responded to a medical call at 11:40am and found the person already dead, then alerted police. Law enforcement sources say officers established a crime scene and have an active investigation underway, but it's not yet clear whether they suspect foul play.

  • Luci4 died on Sunday at a friend's home in Los Angeles.
  • His track "BodyPartz" became a TikTok staple and was later certified gold.

The players

Luci4

A 23-year-old rapper, also known as Axxturel, who was regarded as an early figure in the online microgenre sigilkore.

James Dear

The real name of the rapper Luci4.

Kayla G

Luci4's manager, who described him as a "genius" musician.

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What they’re saying

“There's nobody like him and there will never be.”

— Kayla G, Luci4's manager (People)

What’s next

Law enforcement sources say officers have an active investigation underway, but it's not yet clear whether they suspect foul play.

The takeaway

The sudden death of the rising rapper Luci4, known for his viral hit "BodyPartz" and his pioneering work in the sigilkore genre, has left the music community in mourning and authorities investigating the circumstances surrounding his passing.