Rapper Lil Jon is mourning the loss of his son, Nathan Smith, who was found deceased on February 7, 2026, near thier home in milton, Georgia. Smith, 27, performed as DJ Young Slade and had been missing as Tuesday.
Details of the Incident
Authorities located Smith’s body in a pond at Mayfield Park in Milton following an extensive search involving local law enforcement and fire department dive teams. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office is working to officially confirm the identity and determine the cause of death. Fox 5 Atlanta first reported the news.
Milton police stated that Smith left his home early Tuesday under “unusual circumstances” and without his cell phone. As of February 7, 2026, there is no indication of foul play, but the investigation is ongoing. The search initially focused on the area surrounding Smith’s home before expanding to the wooded area around Mayfield Park. Divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department recovered the body at approximately 11:53 a.m. on Friday.
Joint Statement from Lil Jon and Nicole Smith
Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, and his ex-wife, Nicole Smith, released a joint statement expressing their grief.”I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith,” the statement read. “His mother and I are devastated.” TMZ published the full statement.
Lil Jon described his son as “the kindest human being you would ever meet,” adding that he was “immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted.” The family highlighted Nathan’s artistic talents,noting he was a music producer,artist,engineer,and a graduate of New York University (NYU).
DJ Young Slade’s Rising Career
Nathan Smith, known professionally as DJ Young Slade, was an emerging figure in the Atlanta music scene. Friends and fans have been sharing condolences on social media platforms. Rolling Stone detailed his growing presence in the local music community.
Lil Jon’s Background
Jonathan “Lil Jon” Smith rose to fame as a central figure in the crunk subgenre of hip-hop, achieving success with hits like “Get Low” and “Turn Down for What.” He also has a younger daughter, Nahara, born in 2024.
Key Takeaways
- Nathan Smith, son of rapper Lil Jon, was found deceased on february 7, 2026, in Milton, Georgia.
- Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, but currently see no evidence of foul play.
- Smith was a rising DJ known as DJ Young Slade and a graduate of NYU.
- Lil Jon and his ex-wife, Nicole Smith, have released a joint statement expressing their profound grief.
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