UPDATE: The body of Nathan Smith, the 27-year-old son of rapper Lil Jon, has been found in a pond in Milton, Georgia, following a frantic three-day search. Authorities announced the grim discovery just before noon on February 6, 2026, bringing a heartbreaking conclusion to the family’s desperate search for Nathan, known professionally as DJ Young Slade.
The Milton Police Department confirmed that the body was retrieved by divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department in a pond at Mayfield Park, located near the Smith residence. While the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office has yet to officially identify the body, investigators strongly believe it is Nathan due to the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.
Nathan was last seen early on Tuesday morning, February 3, at his home on Baldwin Drive. Reports indicate he left the house on foot without his mobile phone, raising immediate concerns for his safety. Authorities described his departure as “unusual,” and suggested he may have been “disoriented” and in need of medical assistance at the time. Disturbing local reports indicated he might have left the property without clothing, further intensifying fears for his well-being.
The community rallied together in support, with family, friends, and law enforcement participating in an extensive search effort that sadly ended in tragedy. The Milton Police Department issued a missing person’s alert shortly after Nathan vanished, noting he was last seen in the vicinity of Baldwin Dr./Mayfield Rd. at around 6:00 AM on February 3.
After the devastating news, Lil Jon, whose real name is Jonathan Smith, expressed his heartbreak publicly, stating, “I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother, Nicole Smith, and I are devastated.” He described Nathan as “the kindest human being you would ever meet,” emphasizing the love their family shared.
In an emotional statement, Jonathan reflected on their final moments together, saying, “We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him.” He highlighted Nathan’s character, noting that he was “immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted.”
Nathan was not just a musician’s son; he was a rising talent in the music industry himself. An alumnus of New York University, he had begun to establish his own legacy, co-producing tracks for artists like Saweetie and contributing to the acclaimed HBO series “Insecure.”
Despite the tragic outcome of the search, the Milton Police Department confirmed that the investigation remains active. A spokesperson stated, “Based on the investigation to date, there is no indication of foul play. However, we will continue to treat this case as open and active.”
As the Smith family navigates this unimaginable loss, support pours in from the music community and beyond. Authorities and local police extended their condolences, saying, “We extend our deepest condolences to the Smith family during this difficult time.”
As the investigation unfolds, further details may emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding Nathan Smith’s disappearance.
