Lil Jon’s Son Nathan Smith Tragically Found in Georgia Pond Days After Disappearance
Nathan Smith, Son of Lil Jon, Found Dead in Georgia
Milton, Georgia — Authorities have confirmed that Nathan Smith, the 27-year-old son of rapper Lil Jon, has been found deceased. His body was recovered from a pond on February 6, three days after he was reported missing.
The Milton Police Department announced the grim discovery via Facebook, stating that divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department located the body at approximately 11:53 a.m. The department noted that formal identification by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office is pending.
While investigators say there is no suspicion of foul play, they have indicated that the case will remain an open and active investigation until the official cause and manner of death have been determined.
In a heartfelt statement shared with Billboard, Lil Jon expressed his profound sorrow: “I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of my son, Nathan Smith.” He added, “His mother and I are devastated. Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet. He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted — he loved his family and the friends in his life to the fullest.”
Lil Jon also expressed gratitude for the support he received, saying, “I’d like to thank all of the fans for their prayers and support,” as well as the first responders who participated in the search. He described Nathan as “an amazingly talented young man; a music producer, an artist and engineer and graduate of NYU.”
Nathan was reported missing on the evening of February 3, after leaving his home under unclear circumstances. The police had warned that he “may be disoriented and in need of assistance,” heightening concerns among family and friends about his well-being.
Following a failed initial search, the Milton Police expanded their efforts to include the pond located in Mayfield Park, close to Nathan’s home.
Musically inclined like his father, Nathan performed under the name DJ Young Slade. He was the only child of Lil Jon and his estranged wife, Nicole Smith, with whom he shares a history of nearly 18 years of marriage prior to their separation in 2022. Lil Jon is also the father of a one-year-old daughter, Nahara, with his current girlfriend, Jamila Sozahdah.
As the community mourns this tragic loss, the family remains focused on cherishing Nathan’s memory and his legacy in music.
