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In a tragic development north of Atlanta, authorities have confirmed the discovery of a body believed to be that of Nathan Smith, the son of renowned rapper Lil Jon. Smith, who was also known by his stage name, D.J. Young Slade, was found in a pond in Milton, Georgia, according to police reports released on Friday.
Earlier this week, Smith reportedly left his home in Milton under what police described as “unusual circumstances” early Tuesday morning. Since then, there had been an ongoing search for the 27-year-old.
In response to the devastating news, Lil Jon took to Instagram to express his sorrow. In a heartfelt statement, he and Smith’s mother, Nicole Smith, conveyed their overwhelming grief over the loss of their son.
“Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet,” the statement read. “He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted — he loved his family and the friends in his life to the fullest.”
Authorities had previously issued a missing person alert, noting that Smith “ran out of his house and has been missing since.” The search for him had been widely shared on social media as family, friends, and fans hoped for his safe return.
He “left on foot and does not possess a phone,” police said. “He may be disoriented and in need of assistance. Family and friends are concerned for his safety.”
Milton police immediately began searching for Smith, police said. After being unable to locate him, police and other agencies expanded the search include a pond near Smith’s residence. Shortly before noon Friday, Cherokee County Fire Department divers found a body in the pond.
“The individual is believed to be Nathan Smith, pending official confirmation by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office,” police said in a statement. The medical examiner did not immediately respond to inquiries about the case on Friday.
“Based on the investigation to date, there is no indication of foul play,” police said. “However, the Milton Police Department Criminal Investigations Division will continue to treat this as an open and active investigation.”
Police said no further details would be released until the cause and manner of death are determined by the medical examiner.
Milton is a suburban town about 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Atlanta.
Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, is an Atlanta rapper and producer who was a central figure in the crunk subgenre of hip-hop. He’s known for songs including 2002’s “Get Low” with his group the East Side Boyz and 2013’s “Turn Down For What” with DJ Snake.
He also has a daughter, Nahara, who was born in 2024.