Rap Star Lil Poppa Dies at 25: A Rising Voice Silenced
The hip-hop world is reeling from the sudden death of Janarious Mykel Wheeler, known professionally as Lil Poppa. The Jacksonville, Florida native, whose music blended raw storytelling with deeply personal lyrics, passed away on February 18, 2026, at the age of 25. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office in Georgia confirmed his death, but the cause remains under investigation, sparking both grief and speculation among fans and peers. Lil Poppa’s ascent was marked by a relentless work ethic and an ability to connect with listeners through his honest portrayal of life’s struggles, making his loss particularly poignant for a generation captivated by his authentic voice.
News of Lil Poppa’s passing spread rapidly on Wednesday, February 18th, prompting an outpouring of tributes on social media. Signed to Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group (CMG) in 2022, he had recently released his new single, “Out of Town Bae,” just five days prior to his death, a testament to his continued dedication to his craft. The timing of the release, coupled with his untimely passing, has amplified the sense of loss within the music community. His mother, Monica Martin, shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, expressing her grief and faith in the face of tragedy.
From Jacksonville Streets to National Recognition
Born around the year 2000, Janarious Wheeler, or Lil Poppa as he became known, cultivated his passion for music from a young age in Jacksonville, Florida. He began building a makeshift studio in a closet at age 12, supported by his family and honed his skills performing at church cyphers alongside his older brother, as well a rapper. This early exposure to music and performance laid the foundation for his future success. Lil Poppa’s breakthrough came with tracks like “Nightmare on Elm St.” and “Purple Hearts,” the latter detailing his harrowing experience surviving a shooting. This vulnerability and willingness to share his personal story resonated with audiences and helped him gain traction within the music industry.
His ability to weave faith, pain, and resilience into his lyrics set him apart in a genre often characterized by extravagance. Signing with CMG in 2022 marked a significant milestone in his career, providing him with a platform to reach a wider audience. He released five albums, including 2025’s Almost Normal Again, featuring popular tracks like “Love & War” and collaborations with artists like Polo G. His music consistently captured the essence of Jacksonville, earning him recognition as a defining voice for the city’s hip-hop scene, often drawing comparisons to fellow Florida artist GloRilla.
A Complex Life: Health Battles and Personal Relationships
Lil Poppa’s life wasn’t without its challenges. He openly discussed his struggles with sickle cell anemia, a genetic blood disorder that caused recurring crises and impacted his health. The physical and emotional toll of managing this condition undoubtedly played a role in his music and his perspective on life. Speculation surrounding his death has centered on the possibility of a sickle cell crisis, though authorities have yet to determine the official cause. Beyond his music, Lil Poppa’s personal life also garnered public attention, particularly his relationship with Toie Roberts, the daughter of rapper Rick Ross.
Roberts, who is also the CEO of Ashanti Beauty, and Lil Poppa welcomed their son, PJ, in June 2022. The couple documented their journey to parenthood on social media, sharing joyful moments and glimpses into their lives. Though, their relationship faced public scrutiny in 2023 when Lil Poppa released diss tracks referencing difficulties in their relationship, describing a “haunted house” dynamic. Roberts responded with maturity and grace, mirroring the themes of love and conflict often explored in Lil Poppa’s music. Despite their challenges, the pair continued to co-parent PJ, now three years old, with a focus on their son’s well-being.
The Investigation and Lingering Questions
As of February 19, 2026, the cause of Lil Poppa’s death remains under investigation by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office in Georgia. He was pronounced dead at 11:23 a.m. ET on February 18th. While speculation points to complications from sickle cell anemia or the emotional strain of personal struggles and the loss of friends, authorities have not released any official findings. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the medical examiner’s office completes its analysis. The lack of immediate answers has only intensified the grief and uncertainty surrounding his untimely passing.
The loss of Lil Poppa echoes the tragic pattern of young artists cut short, a recurring theme within the hip-hop community. His story serves as a reminder of the pressures and vulnerabilities faced by those navigating the complexities of fame and fortune. Fans and fellow musicians alike are reflecting on his fighter spirit and the legacy he leaves behind, a testament to his talent, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his craft. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office has not provided a timeline for the completion of their investigation, leaving those seeking closure in a state of anticipation.
Remembering a Rising Star
Lil Poppa’s impact extended beyond his music. Friends and collaborators remember him as a dedicated artist with an unmatched work ethic. Scotty OTH, a fellow Jacksonville native and music producer, described Lil Poppa as a “great guy” and a “good human,” emphasizing his genuine character beyond his artistic persona. He recalled their shared dreams from a young age and the countless hours they spent creating music together. Lil Poppa’s ability to connect with his audience on a deeply personal level, coupled with his unwavering dedication to his craft, solidified his position as a rising star in the hip-hop world.
His music will undoubtedly continue to resonate with listeners for years to come, serving as a reminder of his talent, his struggles, and his unwavering spirit. As the investigation into his death continues, the hip-hop community and his devoted fans remain united in their grief and remembrance of a young artist whose voice was silenced far too soon. Updates regarding the investigation can be found on the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office website. Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office
The world has lost a promising talent, and the music community mourns the passing of Lil Poppa. We will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available. Share your memories and condolences in the comments below.
