Gunfire erupted early Sunday at a memorial for Lil Poppa, born Janarious Wheeler, leaving four people wounded and prompting an ongoing criminal investigation in Jacksonville, authorities said.
The shooting occurred shortly after 12:15 a.m. near A. Philip Randolph Boulevard and Jessie Street on the city’s East Side. According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, 12 to 15 rounds were fired into a crowd gathered to honor the 25-year-old rapper, who died earlier this week in Atlanta.
Officers located a 34-year-old woman at the scene with a gunshot wound. Rescue personnel transported her to a nearby hospital. A 39-year-old woman and two men, ages 37 and 43, later arrived at area medical centers in private vehicles. All four victims survived, law enforcement officials confirmed.
Investigators have not released a suspect description or identified a motive. The agency said detectives are canvassing the area for surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. The investigation remains active.
Community members said the gathering commemorated Wheeler’s life and career. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled his death a suicide caused by a gunshot wound to the head.
Four Shot At Lil Poppa’s Memorial Gathering In Jacksonville, Florida
Wheeler, a Jacksonville native, emerged as a prominent voice in Southern hip-hop. In 2022, he signed with Collective Music Group, founded by Memphis rapper Yo Gotti. The label issued a statement following his death.
“We are stunned and devastated by the loss of our beloved family member, Janarious ‘Lil Poppa’ Wheeler,” the company said. “Poppa was more than a talented artist — he was an ambitious young man with depth beyond his years and endless potential.”
The statement added, “He thoughtfully poured his pain, growth and truth into his art. His passion and authenticity connected and inspired fans from all walks of life.”
Authorities urged anyone with information about the Jacksonville shooting to contact investigators.