The music world is mourning the loss of Nathan Smith, known professionally as DJ Young Slade, the 27-year-old son of rapper Lil Jon. Authorities confirmed Friday the recovery of a body from a pond in Milton, Georgia, believed to be Smith, who was reported missing earlier this week.
The Milton Police Department stated that divers with the Cherokee County Fire Department located the body at approximately 11:53 a.m. On February 6, 2026, in a pond near Smith’s home. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office will officially confirm the identity. Police indicated that, based on the investigation to date, there is no indication of foul play, and the case remains an active investigation.
Lil Jon released a statement expressing his profound grief. “I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother and I are devastated,” he wrote. He described his son as “the kindest human being you would ever meet,” adding that he was “immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted — he loved his family and the friends in his life to the fullest.”
The statement continued, highlighting Nathan’s creative talents. “He was an amazingly talented young man; a music producer, an artist and engineer, and graduate of NYU,” Lil Jon shared. “We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him. He was loved and appreciated, and in our last times together, we’re comforted in knowing that we expressed that very sentiment to him.” He also expressed gratitude for the support received during the search, thanking law enforcement, first responders, and volunteers.
The search for Nathan Smith began on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, after police responded to a report of a missing adult. According to the Milton Police Department, Smith had left his residence under unusual circumstances and could not be located. He was last seen around 6 a.m., leaving on foot without his phone, prompting a widespread search effort involving family, friends, and police.
DJ Young Slade was an emerging artist in the Atlanta music scene, having released the single “Feels” in March 2025. He also gained recognition through an appearance on MTV’s “Family Legacy,” where he discussed navigating life as the son of Lil Jon while forging his own musical identity.
Lil Jon shares Nathan with his estranged wife, Nicole Smith. The couple married in 2004 and announced their separation in 2024. Both parents have requested privacy as they grieve the loss of their son, remembering him as a compassionate and creative young man.
As the investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward. The community is left to grapple with the sudden and tragic loss of a young life full of potential.
