Lil Poppa, whose real name was Janarious Mykel Wheeler, tragically passed away at the age of 25 after a shocking incident following a car crash in Georgia. The rapper was involved in a single-car accident on Interstate 85 south of Hapeville, where he called his manager for advice as the car was still drivable.
Hapeville Chief of Police, Bruce Hedley, revealed that Lil Poppa arranged to meet his manager in a nearby parking lot at the Hilton Hotel. During the meeting, the rapper remained inside his car with the window rolled down while conversing with his manager. It was during this interaction that Lil Poppa unexpectedly pulled out a handgun, pointed it at his head, and tragically took his own life by pulling the trigger.
An off-duty officer who was present at the hotel immediately called 911 upon witnessing the heartbreaking event. Lil Poppa was swiftly taken to Grady Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. No suicide note was found at the scene.
Lil Poppa was a talented artist signed to Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group (CMG) and had released several popular tracks over the years, including “Love & War,” “Mind Over Matter,” and “HAPPY TEARS.” The music industry and his fans were devastated by the news of his untimely death.
In times of crisis or if you know someone who is struggling, help is available. You can call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for support and assistance. Let us remember Lil Poppa for his music and talent, and may he rest in peace.

