The body of rapper Lil Jon’s 27-year-old son has been found near his home in Georgia, days after he was reported missing, police and family members confirmed.
Nathan Smith, who performed under the name DJ Young Slade, was reported missing early Tuesday after he was last seen running out of his home in Milton, Georgia. Authorities said his body was discovered Friday in a pond near the residence.
The medical examiner’s office will make the official identification and determine the cause and manner of death.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Smith family during this difficult time,” Milton police said in a statement. “We respectfully ask the community and members of the media to honor the family’s request for privacy as they grieve.”
Lil Jon, whose real name is Jonathan Smith, confirmed his son’s death in an emotional statement shared on Instagram.
“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith,” the rapper wrote. “His mother, Nicole Smith, and I are devastated. Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet — immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted. He loved his family and friends deeply.”
Lil Jon described his son as a talented 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,” he wrote. “He was loved and appreciated, and we took comfort in knowing we expressed that to him in our final moments together.”
Police said officers responded to Smith’s home around 6 a.m. Tuesday after he was reported missing. Authorities noted that he left the home under unusual circumstances and may have been disoriented and in need of assistance. Police said foul play is not suspected, but the investigation remains open.
Lil Jon also thanked the public for their support during the search for his son.
“Thank you for all of the prayers and support over the last several days,” he wrote.
The Milton Police Department said the case remains active and ongoing.