Lil Jon's son found dead in Georgia pond days after he went missing

Rapper Lil Jon has confirmed the death of his son, days after he went missing from his home. In a post on Instagram on Friday, the American rapper stated that his 27-year-old son, Nathan Smith, who goes by the name DJ Young Slade, has died.

Nathan was reported missing on the morning of Tuesday, February 3, after he was last seen running out of his home in Milton, Georgia, without his phone. Police noted that he may have been disoriented at the time and in need of assistance.

His body was located in a pond near the residence, NBC News reported, citing police officials.

“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother [Nicole Smith] and I are devastated,” the record producer said.

Describing his son as an ‘amazingly talented young man’, he said, "We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him. He was loved and appreciated, and in our last times together, we were comforted in knowing that we expressed that very sentiment to him."

"Thank you for all of the prayers and support in trying to locate him over the last several days," he added in his statement on Instagram.

The rapper also shared a personal tribute on Instagram, writing, "THIS HURTS SO BAD. I LOVE YOU SON," alongside a video compilation of childhood memories.

The official confirmation of identity, along with the specific cause and manner of death, will be determined by the medical examiner's office following their investigation, NBC News reported.

In light of this tragedy, the Milton Police issued a statement extending their deepest condolences to the Smith family and requested that both the community and the media respect their privacy as they grieve the loss of Nathan.

"Based on the investigation to date, there is no indication of foul play," the police were quoted as saying by BBC. Police stated that no more information would be provided until medical examiners determine the cause and manner of death.

Born Jonathan Smith, the Grammy Award-winning artist Lil Jon is widely known for his hits like Yeah! and Turn Down for What. Jon also has a daughter, Nahara, who was born in 2024.