Body Believed to Be Lil Jon's Son Found in Pond Near Atlanta

Nathan Smith, known professionally as D.J. Young Slade, left his home under unusual circumstances and was later discovered deceased.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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A person believed to be the son of rapper Lil Jon has been found dead in a pond north of Atlanta, police said. Nathan Smith, known professionally as D.J. Young Slade, left his home in Milton 'under unusual circumstances' early Tuesday morning and was later discovered by divers in a nearby pond. Lil Jon and Smith's mother, Nicole Smith, expressed heartbreak over the 'tragic loss' of their 27-year-old son.

Why it matters

The death of Lil Jon's son has shocked the music community and raised questions about the circumstances surrounding his disappearance and death. While police have not indicated foul play, the investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the cause and manner of Nathan Smith's death.

The details

According to police, Nathan Smith 'ran out of his house and has been missing since' Tuesday morning. He 'left on foot and does not possess a phone,' leading family and friends to become concerned for his safety. After an extensive search, divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department discovered a body in a pond near Smith's residence, which is believed to be him pending confirmation from the medical examiner.

  • On Tuesday morning, Nathan Smith left his home in Milton under unusual circumstances.
  • Shortly before noon on Friday, a body was found in a pond near Smith's residence.

The players

Lil Jon

An Atlanta rapper and producer who was a central figure in the crunk subgenre of hip-hop, known for songs like 'Get Low' and 'Turn Down For What'.

Nicole Smith

The mother of Nathan Smith, who is Lil Jon's son.

Nathan Smith

Also known professionally as D.J. Young Slade, he was Lil Jon's 27-year-old son who was found deceased in a pond near his home in Milton, Georgia.

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What they’re saying

“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 (Instagram)

What’s next

The Milton Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division will continue to treat this as an open and active investigation until the cause and manner of Nathan Smith's death are determined by the medical examiner.

The takeaway

The tragic loss of Lil Jon's son has left the music community and his family devastated, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness and support for those struggling with personal challenges, even within high-profile families.