Rapper Lil Jon’s son DJ Young Slade believed dead after body found in Georgia pond

Police say a body believed to be rapper Lil Jon’s son DJ Young Slade was found in a Georgia pond as probes continue

Authorities in Milton, Georgia, have recovered a body believed to be Nathan Smith, the 27-year-old son of rapper Lil Jon, following a days-long search. 

Smith, an aspiring rapper who performed under the name DJ Young Slade, had been reported missing earlier this week.

The Milton Police Department issued a missing persons alert on February 3 after Smith reportedly ran out of his home around 6 a.m. He left on foot without his phone and was believed to be disoriented and possibly in need of assistance, prompting concern from both family members and law enforcement.

After expanding their search efforts, divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department discovered a body in a pond near Smith’s residence at approximately 11:53 a.m. on February 6. Officials stated that the individual is believed to be Smith, though formal identification will be confirmed by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office.

“Based on the investigation to date, there is no indication of foul play,” police said in a statement. However, authorities emphasized that the case remains an open and active investigation until the official cause and manner of death are determined and all leads are thoroughly examined.

Earlier in the search, a representative for Lil Jon asked the public for prayers and privacy as the family hoped for Smith’s safe return. Following the discovery, police also extended condolences to the Smith family and urged the community and media to respect their request for privacy during this difficult time.

Lil Jon has not yet made a public statement regarding the development. The story continues to unfold as investigators work to establish the circumstances surrounding Smith’s disappearance and death.