Nathan Smith, the 27-year-old son of rapper Lil Jon who performed as DJ Young Slade, has been found dead in a pond in Milton, Georgia, three days after he was reported missing earlier this week. Authorities say divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department recovered a body from a pond in Mayfield Park on Feb. 6, 2026, around 11:53 a.m., and it is believed to be Smith’s pending official confirmation by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office. Police have stated there is currently no indication of foul play, though the investigation remains open as officials await final identification and cause of death.

Smith was first reported missing on Feb. 3 after he left his home on foot without a cellphone and was described by the Milton Police Department as possibly disoriented and in need of help. The search quickly drew in multiple emergency responders and expanded to include the nearby pond where his body was eventually found.

Lil Jon confirmed the heartbreaking news on social media and in statements to news outlets, expressing that he and Smith’s mother, Nicole Smith, are “extremely heartbroken” over their son’s death. Lil Jon described Nathan as “the kindest human being you would ever meet” — caring, thoughtful, passionate and deeply loved by his family and friends — and highlighted his son’s talents as a music producer, artist and NYU graduate. The family has asked for privacy as they grieve during this difficult time.

Smith had pursued a music career under his stage name DJ Young Slade, releasing work in recent years and gaining recognition for his creative output before his disappearance.

The Milton Police Department has urged the community and media to respect the family’s request for privacy and refrain from speculation while authorities continue their investigation.