Lil Jon’s Son Nathan Smith Found Dead in Georgia Days After Being Reported Missing

The hip-hop community and fans across the world are mourning after the tragic death of Grammy Award-winning rapper and producer Lil Jon’s son, Nathan Smith, who was only 27 years old. Authorities in Georgia confirmed on Friday that a body believed to be Smith was recovered from a pond near his home, several days after he was reported missing.

Who Was Lil Jon’s Son Nathan Smith

Smith, who performed under the stage name DJ Young Slade, was last seen early Tuesday morning in Milton, a suburban area roughly 30 miles north of Atlanta. According to the Milton Police Department, he left his home on foot under what investigators described as “unusual circumstances” and did not have his phone with him at the time.

When Smith did not return home, his family became worried and contacted the police; after that, police issued a missing person alert.

Police and emergency crew members spent several days searching the surrounding area.
During the search, attention eventually turned to a pond in Mayfield Park, where Smith was last seen. On Friday, divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department recovered a body from the water shortly before noon.

While formal identification is pending confirmation by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office, police said the individual is believed to be Nathan Smith. The medical examiner will also determine the official cause and manner of death. As of Friday evening, officials had not released additional details.

Investigators stated that there is currently no evidence suggesting foul play, though the case remains open until all forensic findings are completed.

Lil Jon, whose real name is Jonathan Smith, shared an emotional message on social media confirming the devastating loss. In a joint statement with Smith’s mother, Nicole Smith, the artist expressed deep gratitude to the community and first responders who assisted in the search.

“We are absolutely heartbroken,” the statement read. “Nathan was the kindest human being you could ever meet. He was loving, thoughtful, passionate, and incredibly talented. His mother and I are devastated by this loss.”

Lil Jon also thanked the Milton Police Department and all agencies involved for their tireless efforts during the search, as well as fans and supporters who offered prayers and encouragement during the difficult days.

Nathan Smith was an accomplished music professional in his own right. A graduate of New York University, he worked as a music producer, artist, and engineer, steadily building his career while staying largely out of the public spotlight despite his famous father.

Those close to him described Smith as warmhearted and deeply devoted to his family and friends. Lil Jon shared that the family has found some comfort in knowing they expressed their love and pride in him during their last moments together.

About Lil Jon

Lil Jon is widely recognized as a pioneer of the crunk music movement, a Southern hip-hop style that dominated the early 2000s. His career includes iconic hits such as “Get Low,” “Yeah!” with Usher, and “Turn Down for What” with DJ Snake.

As news of Nathan Smith’s death spread, tributes began pouring in from fans, artists, and members of the music industry, many offering condolences and remembering him as a promising talent gone too soon.

Authorities have asked for privacy for the family as the investigation continues. Further updates are expected once the medical examiner completes the final report. When Smith did not return home, his family became worried and contacted the police; after that, the police issued a missing person alert.

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