The tragic death of rising Southern hip-hop star Lil Poppa, born Janarious Mykel Wheeler, has shocked fans and the music industry alike. Confirmed by the Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office, Lil Poppa was pronounced dead at 11:23 a.m. ET on February 18, 2026, just days after releasing his latest single, 'Out of Town Bae'. As reported by BOL News, he was only 25 years old and had a performance scheduled in New Orleans for March, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, with the cause yet to be determined, leading to widespread speculation among fans and media. The Economic Times noted that unverified claims of suicide have circulated rapidly online, despite officials emphasizing that the investigation is ongoing and no official cause has been confirmed.