Rapper Lil Jon has issued a heartbreaking statement confirming the death of his 27-year-old son, Nathan Smith, who had been missing for several days before authorities located a body believed to be his in a pond near the family’s home.
In the emotional message shared on social media, the Grammy-winning artist, born Jonathan Smith, said, “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,” highlighting his caring, thoughtful, and warmhearted nature.
Lil Jon praised his son’s many talents, noting that he was an accomplished music producer, artist, and engineer and a graduate of New York University. “We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him,” the statement continued, expressing comfort that the family had shared their love with him in their final moments together.
Nathan, who performed under the name DJ Young Slade, was reported missing on February 3 after leaving his Milton, Georgia, residence early in the morning without his phone, prompting a multi-agency search. Police said he may have been disoriented during his disappearance, leading to widespread efforts including K-9 teams and volunteer searchers.
On February 6, divers with the Cherokee County Fire Department recovered a body from a pond in Mayfield Park, which police believe to be Nathan’s, pending official identification by the Fulton County Medical Examiner. Authorities have stated there is no indication of foul play, though the investigation remains open.
Lil Jon and his family have thanked law enforcement and volunteers for their support and asked for privacy as they grieve this devastating loss.
