Authorities in Milton, Georgia, discovered the body of a man believed to be Nathan Smith, recognized in the music industry as D.J. Young Slade, on Friday. Smith, age 27, was reported missing after leaving his residence under circumstances described by local law enforcement as unusual.
According to police reports, Smith departed on foot from his Milton home early Tuesday morning without a mobile phone, and has been unaccounted for since. Concern for his well-being prompted authorities to issue a missing person notice, highlighting the possibility that he may be disoriented and require assistance.
Smith’s father, Jonathan Smith, widely known as rapper and producer Lil Jon, issued a statement via social media expressing profound sorrow over the loss. He, alongside Smith’s mother Nicole Smith, conveyed their heartbreak, describing Nathan as a gentle and warm individual, deeply devoted to family and friends.
In response to Smith’s disappearance, Milton police initiated immediate search efforts concentrating in the areas surrounding his home, including a nearby pond. These measures culminated shortly before midday Friday when divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department retrieved a body from the water.
Milton police confirmed the body is believed to be Smith, pending official identification and confirmation by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office. The medical examiner has not provided further details as of the latest updates.
Investigators have stated that current findings do not indicate foul play. However, they emphasized that the Milton Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division will maintain an active status on the case, continuing thorough inquiries until the cause and manner of death are conclusively established.
The municipality of Milton, where these events unfolded, is located approximately 30 miles north of Atlanta, Georgia, situating it within the suburban reach of the city.
Jonathan Smith, known professionally as Lil Jon, has been a significant figure in the hip-hop scene, particularly noted for his influence on the crunk genre. His career highlights include the early 2000s hit "Get Low" performed with the East Side Boyz and the 2013 track "Turn Down For What" alongside DJ Snake. Besides Nathan, Lil Jon is also the father of a daughter born in 2024.