*Lil Jon has confirmed the death of his son, Nathan “DJ Young Slade” Smith, after authorities discovered his body near the family’s home in Milton, Georgia, days after he was reported missing.
Police said Smith, 27, was found in a pond close to the residence on Friday. He had been reported missing earlier in the week after leaving his home under unusual circumstances in the early morning hours. The medical examiner is expected to determine the official cause and manner of death. In a statement to USA TODAY, Lil Jon said he and Nathan’s mother, Nicole Smith, are devastated by the loss.
“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,” Jon said. “He was an amazingly talented young man; a music producer, an artist and engineer, and graduate of NYU.”
The hip-hop star added, “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’re 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.”
Scroll to continue reading
We reported earlier that officers first responded to Smith’s home around 6 a.m. Tuesday following reports that he had suddenly run out of the house. Police indicated that Smith appeared confused at the time and may have required immediate help. He reportedly left without his phone, wallet, or other personal items, raising concerns among family members and authorities.
In updates shared later in the week, investigators described Smith’s departure as occurring under unusual conditions, though they emphasized that there were no signs suggesting criminal involvement. Law enforcement officials stated that, while foul play is not believed to be a factor, the investigation remains ongoing.
Search efforts initially focused on the surrounding neighborhood before expanding to nearby parks and bodies of water, including areas close to Mayfield Park. The discovery of the body came several days into the search.
In a statement, Milton police expressed sympathy for the Smith family and urged the public and media to respect their privacy during this period of grief. Officials reiterated that the case is still active as they await further findings from the medical examiner’s office.
“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,” police said.
Smith, who was building a music career, was last seen on the morning of February 3. Authorities have not released additional details about what may have prompted him to leave the home or the circumstances leading up to his death. Further updates are expected once the medical examiner’s report is complete.
(If You Like/Appreciate This EURweb Story, Please SHARE it!)
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: ‘Lil Jon Son Missing’ After Disappearing from Georgia Home | VIDEO
Sign up for our Free daily newsletter HERE.
