Lil Jon has confirmed the heartbreaking death of his 27-year-old son, Nathan Smith, known professionally as DJ Young Slade, after authorities in Georgia recovered a body believed to be his.
Nathan had been reported missing on Tuesday, February 3. Days later, on Friday, February 6, the Milton Police Department announced the recovery of a body from a pond in the area.
While an official cause of death has not yet been released, the family has confirmed the tragic loss.
In a statement released to PEOPLE, Lil Jon, whose real name is Jonathan Smith, expressed profound sorrow over the death of his son.
He said, “I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother Nicole and I are devastated. 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.”
Lil Jon went on to highlight Nathan’s accomplishments, describing him as a music producer, artist, and engineer who graduated from NYU.
He said that Nathan had always made his parents proud, not just through his creative work, but also through his deep compassion and love for others.
“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,” the statement read.
The rapper also offered his heartfelt thanks to the many agencies, officials, and volunteers who participated in the search for Nathan.
He specifically named Detective Dula Milton, Sergeant Scott Lappin, Detective Randy Dula, Detective Sarah Moore, and Detective Daniel Williams from the Milton Police Department, along with support from the Sandy Springs Police Department, Fulton County Sheriff’s Office.
Haralson County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee Fire Department, Forsyth County Fire Department, Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia K9 Team Search and Recovery, and the Cherokee Rescue and Dive Team.
Shortly after the public statement, Lil Jon took to Instagram to share a video tribute and several family photos.
The caption read, “THIS HURTS SO BAD. 💔 I LOVE YOU SON,” reflecting the deep emotional impact of the loss on the family.
Nathan was last seen near a wooded area in Milton, and the investigation remains ongoing. An autopsy will determine the official cause of death.
In the meantime, the music world continues to react with grief and support as fans and fellow artists remember DJ Young Slade not only for his talent but for his warmth, generosity, and the joy he brought to those around him.
The Smith family has requested privacy as they navigate this devastating moment and have thanked everyone for the prayers and support they’ve received throughout the search and in the aftermath of Nathan’s passing.
