The Young DJ, Who Was Working in the Music Industry Alongside His Famous Father, Had Been Reported Missing Earlier This Week
Lil Jon has confirmed that his son, Nathan Smith, has died.
In a statement shared with Newsweek, the hip-hop producer and DJ said the family is “extremely heartbroken” following the loss. Smith, who performed under the name DJ Young Slade, had been reported missing in Georgia earlier this week.
“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith,” Lil Jon said. “His mother, Nicole Smith, and I are devastated.”
He described his son as “the kindest human being you would ever meet,” adding that Nathan was caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted, with a deep love for his family and friends. Lil Jon said Nathan was also a gifted young artist—a music producer, engineer, and NYU graduate.
“We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him,” the statement continued. “He was loved and appreciated, and in our last times together we’re comforted in knowing that we expressed that very sentiment to him.”
Smith was reported missing Tuesday in Milton, Georgia, after he allegedly ran from his apartment barefoot. Divers searched the area Friday, when a body was discovered in a nearby pond. In a statement posted to Facebook, the Milton Police Department said that on February 6, 2026, at approximately 11:53 a.m., divers with the Cherokee County Fire Department recovered a body believed to be Smith, pending official confirmation by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Police said there is no indication of foul play at this time, though the case remains open and active. Authorities said no further details will be released until the medical examiner determines the official cause and manner of death and investigators complete all remaining leads.
The department also asked the public and media to respect the family’s privacy, extending condolences as they grieve and navigate the tragedy.
