Lil Jon's Son Nathan Smith, DJ Young Slade, Found Dead in Georgia Park Pond

The 27-year-old music producer and artist had been missing since Tuesday morning.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The body of Lil Jon's 27-year-old son Nathan Smith, who performed as DJ Young Slade, was recovered from a pond near his home in Milton, Georgia on Friday. Smith had been missing since Tuesday morning, and local authorities said there was no indication of foul play in his death.

Why it matters

The tragic death of Lil Jon's son has shaken the music community, with many expressing condolences for the rapper and his family. Smith was an up-and-coming music producer and artist, and his passing at a young age is a profound loss.

The details

According to police, Smith's body was found in a pond in a nearby park after search teams failed to locate him elsewhere. The Milton Police Department said there was no indication of foul play, though the official cause and manner of death are still pending from the medical examiner's office.

  • Nathan Smith was last seen leaving his home on Tuesday, February 4, 2026 at 6 a.m.
  • His body was recovered from a pond in a local park on Friday, February 6, 2026.

The players

Lil Jon

A Grammy-winning rapper and producer, and the father of Nathan Smith.

Nathan Smith

Lil Jon's 27-year-old son, who performed as DJ Young Slade and was an up-and-coming music producer and artist.

Nicole Smith

Nathan Smith's mother and Lil Jon's ex-wife.

Milton Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that led the search for Nathan Smith and investigated his death.

Cherokee County Fire Department

The fire department that assisted in the search and recovery efforts.

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What they’re saying

“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother [Nicole Smith] and I are devastated.”

— Lil Jon, Rapper and Producer (Instagram)

“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 and Nicole Smith (Instagram)

What’s next

The Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office will determine the official cause and manner of Nathan Smith's death.

The takeaway

The tragic loss of Lil Jon's son Nathan, a talented young music producer and artist, has devastated his family and the broader music community. This serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing loved ones.