Authorities in Georgia have confirmed the tragic discovery of a body believed to be Nathan Smith, the 27-year-old son of Grammy-winning rapper Lil Jon, ending a multi-day search that began when the young musician vanished under mysterious circumstances. The Milton Police Department located the remains in a pond near Smith’s residence on Friday morning, just days after he disappeared from his home without his phone or personal belongings.
Nathan Smith, who performed under the stage name DJ Young Slade, was reported missing early Tuesday after family members stated he had left his home on foot under what police described as ‘unusual circumstances.’ An initial missing person alert indicated Smith might have been ‘disoriented and in need of assistance,’ prompting widespread concern among family, friends, and fans.
The investigation has thus far revealed no evidence of foul play, according to official statements from Milton police. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office is currently working to provide positive identification and determine the exact cause and manner of death, with authorities stating no further information will be released until this process is complete.
Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, and Nathan’s mother Nicole Smith issued an emotional statement expressing their profound grief. ‘Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet,’ the rapper wrote. ‘He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted. We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him.’
The tragedy struck the music community particularly hard, as Nathan had followed in his father’s footsteps as an accomplished musician in his own right. A graduate of New York University, he had built a reputation as a talented music producer, artist, and audio engineer. Father and son had recently appeared together on television, competing on an episode of ‘Family Feud’ that showcased their close relationship.
The pond where the body was discovered sits approximately 30 miles north of Atlanta in Milton, Georgia—the same area where Lil Jon launched his legendary music career that produced international hits including ‘Yeah!’ and ‘Turn Down For What.’