Rapper Lil Poppa Dies by Suicide at 25

Fulton County Medical Examiner rules the 25-year-old's death a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Rapper Lil Poppa, whose real name was Janarious Mykel Wheeler, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound according to the Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office in Georgia. The 25-year-old Jacksonville, Florida-based artist was signed to Yo Gotti's Collective Music Group (CMG) label and had released an album last year.

Why it matters

Lil Poppa's death by suicide at a young age highlights the ongoing mental health challenges faced by many in the music industry, where high-pressure careers, substance abuse, and other factors can contribute to depression and other issues. His passing will likely prompt further discussions about the need for greater mental health support and resources for artists.

The details

According to authorities, Lil Poppa, whose real name was Janarious Mykel Wheeler, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. His death has been officially ruled a suicide by the Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office. Lil Poppa was a rising rapper signed to Yo Gotti's Collective Music Group (CMG) label and had released an album in 2025.

  • Lil Poppa died on February 18, 2026.

The players

Lil Poppa

A 25-year-old rapper from Jacksonville, Florida who was signed to Yo Gotti's Collective Music Group (CMG) label.

Yo Gotti

An American rapper and record executive who founded the Collective Music Group (CMG) label that signed Lil Poppa.

Caroline "Baroline" Diaz

A music industry executive who worked as an A&R for some of Lil Poppa's projects.

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What they’re saying

“My little brother is gone, Poppa I love you so much. I am so broken. One of the first artists I had at Interscope. A&R'ed 4 of his projects. I'm so sad right now……..”

— Caroline "Baroline" Diaz, Music Industry Executive (X)

What’s next

Lil Poppa's family and record label are expected to hold a memorial service to honor the late rapper in the coming days.

The takeaway

Lil Poppa's tragic death by suicide at just 25 years old underscores the urgent need for greater mental health awareness and support within the music industry, where the high-pressure nature of fame and other factors can take a heavy toll on artists' wellbeing.