Rapper Lil Poppa's cause of death revealed

Entertainment Weekly • February 19, 2026 • entertainment

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Rapper Lil Poppa, born Janarious Mykel Wheeler, died by suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, as confirmed by the Fulton County Medical Examiner following an autopsy.
Wheeler, a Florida-based artist signed to Collective Music Group (CMG), passed away on February 18 in Georgia at the age of 25.
CMG released a heartfelt statement praising Lil Poppa's talent, ambition, and emotional depth, pledging to honor and uphold his legacy.
Despite his young age, Lil Poppa was a prolific musician with five albums and multiple singles, including the notable 2018 track "Purple Hearts," which led to his Interscope Records deal.
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