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MILTON, Ga. – Authorities have reported that a body discovered in a pond north of Atlanta is believed to be that of Nathan Smith, the son of rapper Lil Jon. The news was confirmed by local police on Friday.
Known in the music industry as D.J. Young Slade, Nathan Smith reportedly left his Milton residence under mysterious conditions early Tuesday morning, police have stated.
Lil Jon expressed profound grief over the loss, sharing a heartfelt message on Instagram with Nathan’s mother, Nicole Smith. “We are deeply devastated by the tragic passing of our son,” the statement revealed.
“Nathan was an incredibly kind person,” the message continued. “He was exceptionally caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted. He cherished his family and friends immensely.”
The 27-year-old Nathan Smith was reported missing after he abruptly left his home, according to a missing person alert distributed by the police on social media.
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.
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