Nathan Smith, son of musician Lil Jon, was found deceased in a pond north of Atlanta, Georgia, on Friday, following a multi-day search initiated after his disappearance from his Milton home on Tuesday morning. Authorities have reported no signs of foul play in the ongoing investigation.
Disappearance and Initial Search Efforts
Nathan Smith, 27, known professionally as DJ Young Slade, was reported missing from his residence in Milton, Georgia, on Tuesday morning. He was last seen around 6 a.m. near Baldwin Drive and Mayfield Road, reportedly running from his home. Police stated that Smith left on foot without his phone and might have been disoriented, expressing concern for his safety and indicating he might require assistance. Smith was described as 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing approximately 150 pounds.
Search efforts by Milton Police on Thursday focused on the Mayfield Park area. These efforts involved the deployment of K-9 units and a specialized bloodhound from the Haralson County Sheriff’s Office to search the neighborhood and nearby bodies of water. Milton Police requested public assistance, providing a contact number (678-297-6300), and assured residents there was no threat to public safety despite an increased law enforcement presence in Mayfield Park.
Discovery and Ongoing Investigation
On Friday morning, a body was located by Cherokee County Fire Department divers in a pond north of Atlanta during an expanded search. Police believe the individual is Nathan Smith, pending official confirmation from the Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office. Nathan Smith's death was subsequently confirmed by his father, Lil Jon, and his mother, Nicole Smith.
The Milton Police Department Criminal Investigations Division is treating the incident as an active investigation. As of the current investigation, authorities have indicated no signs of foul play. Further details regarding the cause and manner of death are expected to be released following the medical examiner's determination.
Family Statements and Burial
Nathan Smith was laid to rest on the first day of Ramadan. His father, musician Lil Jon (born Jonathan Smith), confirmed the burial via Instagram, where he also expressed gratitude for condolences received.
In a joint statement, Lil Jon and Nicole Smith described Nathan as a kind, caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted individual dedicated to his family and friends. Lil Jon also referenced his son as an "amazingly talented young man" who worked as a music producer, artist, and engineer, and was a New York University graduate.
He expressed gratitude to authorities and the public for their support during the search.