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Rapper Luci4 Dies at 23, Death Under Investigation

Published 24 February 2026

Los Angeles rapper Luci4, whose real name was James Dear, died at age 23 on February 22, leaving the underground music scene in mourning amid suspicions raised by his family over the circumstances of his death at a private residence in the city.

Emergency responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived at the location around 11:40 a.m. following a medical call, but Dear was already deceased upon their arrival. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed his identity and noted that the cause of death remains under investigation. Police secured the property as a potential crime scene, though officials have not confirmed any evidence of foul play or identified suspects. The Los Angeles Police Department described the case as active but provided few additional details, stating that no possibilities are being ruled out.

Dear's grandparents expressed deep concern to investigators and media outlets, revealing that he had been found unresponsive sometime after 2 a.m. at a friend's home. They pointed to his emptied wallet, which contained no cash or cards, as a troubling sign. The family had recently warned Dear to be cautious about the people entering his life as his fame...

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