Luci4 Dead at 23; LAPD Investigates Possible Foul Play After Wallet Allegations
Rapper luci4, born James Dear, has died at 23, and Los Angeles investigators have opened a formal probe after emergency responders found him unresponsive. The case has drawn close attention because of claims his wallet was emptied and because authorities established a crime scene when officers arrived.
Los Angeles Fire Department Response
The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a medical call at a residence late on Sunday morning and arrived at roughly 11: 40 AM. First responders found the individual already deceased and notified police, who took over the scene.
LAPD Crime Scene and Investigation
The Los Angeles Police Department established a crime scene immediately upon arrival and is conducting a forensic examination. Officials have stated the investigation remains ongoing and that foul play has not been ruled out; they have not disclosed any suspects. The property was sealed off, a move that has intensified public scrutiny while detectives await toxicology and other forensic results that could determine the official cause of death.
Family Account and Wallet Concerns
Grandparents of James Dear said he died on February 22, 2026, at a friend's home in Los Angeles and that they are seeking answers from police. They expressed suspicion because, they said, his wallet was completely emptied and they had recently warned him about people he had been spending time with as his fame grew. The family has emphasized they do not yet know what happened and are awaiting the outcome of the investigation.
Luci4 Career: 'BodyPartz', Atlantic Records and Net Worth
James Dear performed under the stage name Luci4 and also used the aliases Axxturel and 4jay. He first broke through in 2021 with the viral track "BodyPartz, " which exploded across TikTok and later earned a gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America. His rise led to a recording agreement with Atlantic Records. At the time of his death, his net worth was estimated at around $6. 5 million USD (approx. ), reflecting commercial success that accompanied his online notoriety.
Legacy: Sigilkore, Aliases and Fan Tributes
Credited as a pioneer of the internet microgenre sigilkore, Luci4 blended elements of rap, hyperpop and digital sound manipulation, building a loyal following on platforms like TikTok and SoundCloud. Fans and peers posted tributes across social media in the hours after his death; one user wrote, "Rising talent, tragic end. Luci4 gone at 23. A reminder of how quickly things can change in the music world. " Another said, "Rip luci4 Id listen to his music on the bus everyday a few years back. " A third added, "Luci4 death hit so hard... ik he looking up at us rn. " These responses underscore the rapid fan engagement that accompanied his unconventional style and online presence.
L. A. County Medical Examiner Confirmation and Personal Details
The L. A. County Medical Examiner has confirmed James Dear's death but has not released an official cause, leaving the manner and circumstances undetermined pending further toxicology and investigative work. Dear was born August 2, 2002, and was 23 at the time of his death on February 22, 2026. What makes this notable is how quickly a 2021 viral moment translated into both industry recognition and intense scrutiny around his final hours.
Jessica Johanna Oseguera González Mention
The provided context also includes a distinct detail naming Jessica Johanna Oseguera González as the U. S. -born daughter of alleged Mexican cartel leader Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, the head of the Cartel Jalisco. The connection of that fact to the current investigation is unclear in the provided context.
The investigation into the death of Luci4 is active, and authorities continue to collect evidence and await results that will clarify the cause and whether criminal activity played a role. Family members remain keen for answers as forensic work proceeds.
