Florida Memorial Gathering for Jacksonville Rapper Lil Poppa Turns Violent as 4 People Are Shot on the City’s Eastside
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA — A memorial gathering meant to honor Jacksonville rapper Lil Poppa turned into a chaotic overnight shooting on the city’s Eastside, leaving four people wounded after gunfire erupted following a party that stretched past midnight Sunday, according to reports shared in a social media post summarizing police and neighbor accounts.
Police said 12 to 15 rounds were fired, and investigators were still searching for a suspect as of Sunday morning. No suspect description had been released.
Shooting Happened After Midnight Near A. Philip Randolph Boulevard and Jessie Street
The gathering took place near the intersection of A. Philip Randolph Boulevard and Jessie Street, where neighbors said people had assembled to remember Lil Poppa. By Sunday morning, the area was littered with debris, including bottles and party remnants, underscoring how quickly the scene shifted from tribute to crime scene.
Law enforcement presence remained visible as investigators processed the area and worked to determine what led to the shooting.
Four Victims Wounded Including Two Women and Two Men
Authorities said the victims included two women, ages 34 and 39, and two men, ages 37 and 43. One of the women, 34, was found at the scene and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Police said the other three victims made it to a hospital on their own, suggesting some injuries may have allowed for self-transport, though officials have not publicly described the severity of each wound.
Investigators Search for Suspect After 12 to 15 Rounds Fired
Police described the gunfire as intense, with 12 to 15 shots ringing out during the incident. As of Sunday morning, investigators were still working to identify the shooter and had not released a suspect description.
In shootings tied to large gatherings, detectives often review witness accounts, nearby surveillance footage, and any videos posted online to track movements and identify potential leads. Authorities have not indicated whether any weapon has been recovered.
Community Voices Call for Safer Gatherings After Violence
The shooting prompted renewed calls for safer community events. Bishop Harry Williams of In the Word International Church on Sparing Street urged organizers and attendees to step in when they see someone carrying a weapon and to encourage a safer environment—comments reflecting a common frustration after repeated violence at public gatherings.
Neighbors said the event was organized to honor Lil Poppa, who reportedly died at age 25 in Atlanta, making the shooting especially painful for those who attended to grieve and remember him.
Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Asks Public for Information
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office as the investigation continues. Tips from witnesses, nearby residents, or anyone who recorded video can be critical in cases where suspects flee before police arrive.
What do you think Jacksonville needs most to prevent shootings at large gatherings—more police presence, better security screening, or stronger community intervention? Share your thoughts and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
