Lil Jon’s 27-year-old son, DJ Young Slade, born Nathan Smith, is believed to be dead after authorities recovered a body from a pond near his home in Milton, Georgia, TMZ reports.
In a statement from the Milton Police Department on Feb. 6, it was revealed that divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department recovered a body earlier that morning and strongly believe that it is Lil Jon’s son.
Milton Police Department’s Statement
“On February 6, 2026, at approximately 11:53 a.m., divers with the Cherokee County Fire Department located and recovered a body from the pond,” the statement obtained by TMZ reads. “The individual is believed to be Nathan Smith, pending official confirmation by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office.”
“Based on the investigation to date, there is no indication of foul play,” the statement continued. “However, the Milton Police Department Criminal Investigations Division will continue to treat this as an open and active investigation.”
“No further details will be released until the official cause and manner of death are determined by the Fulton County Medical Examiner and all investigative leads have been thoroughly examined,” the Milton Police Department added.
The statement ended by asking the public to respect the privacy of Smith’s family, saying, “We extend our deepest condolences to the Smith family during this difficult time. The department respectfully asks the community and members of the media to honor the family’s request for privacy as they grieve and navigate this tragedy.”
Lil Jon’s Son Left His Home Under Unusual Circumstances
Lil Jon’s son was reported missing on Feb. 3 near Baldwin Drive in Milton, Georgia. According to TMZ, responding officers had reason to believe that Smith left his home barefoot and without a phone under unusual circumstances. The Milton Police Department immediately began their search and coordinated with multiple partner agencies. After several days without finding Smith, authorities began to search a pond in Mayfield Park near the rapper’s son’s residence.
A representative for Lil Jon’s family shared a statement with TMZ after he was reported missing, requesting prayers and privacy. “The family is asking for privacy at this time,” the rep said. “We are also asking for continued prayers for Nathan to come home safe. Thank you.”
Fans of Lil Jon and his son have shared their heartfelt reactions to the likelihood of his death in an Instagram post from TMZ.
“Omg! This is awful! Prayers for the family,” wrote one.
”Im praying for his safe return home,” said another.
”So sad. As a father I couldn’t imagine. Blessings to Jon and the fam,” said a third.
