Lil Jon's Son Nathan Smith Died by Accidental Drowning After Psilocybin Use

Autopsy reveals the 27-year-old music producer's cause of death following his body being found in a pond near his Georgia home.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Lil Jon's son, Nathan Smith, was found dead in a pond near his home in Milton, Georgia on February 6, 2026 after being reported missing three days earlier. An autopsy later revealed that the 27-year-old music producer and artist drowned in the setting of psilocybin use, with his death ruled an accident.

Why it matters

The tragic loss of Lil Jon's son at a young age has understandably devastated the family. This case highlights the dangers of recreational drug use and the need for greater awareness and support around mental health and substance abuse issues, especially among young adults.

The details

According to the autopsy report, Nathan Smith's blood sample tested positive for psilocin, the primary psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms. The report also indicated a 'presumptive positive' for cannabinoids, the compounds found in cannabis. Authorities stated there were no signs of injury and ruled the death an accident.

  • Nathan Smith was reported missing to the Milton Police Department on February 3, 2026.
  • His body was recovered from a pond near his home on February 6, 2026.
  • The autopsy report was obtained by Us Weekly on February 25, 2026.

The players

Lil Jon

The rapper, whose real name is Jonathan H. Smith, is the father of Nathan Smith.

Nathan Smith

Also known as DJ Young Slade, Lil Jon's 27-year-old son was a music producer, artist and engineer who graduated from NYU.

Nicole Smith

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

Milton Police Department

The law enforcement agency that confirmed the recovery of Nathan Smith's body and the ongoing investigation.

Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office

The office that conducted the autopsy and determined the cause of Nathan Smith's death.

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What they’re saying

“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of my son, Nathan Smith. His mother [Nicole Smith] 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 (Us Weekly)

“On the first day of Ramadan yesterday, We laid my only son to rest. In this holy month, I'm asking for extra du'a for him and for our family. I love you, son. Life will never be the same without you. Allah, give me strength.”

— Lil Jon (Instagram)

What’s next

The Milton Police Department stated the case remains an 'open and active investigation' as they continue to look into the circumstances surrounding Nathan Smith's death.

The takeaway

This tragic loss highlights the need for greater awareness and support around mental health and substance abuse issues, especially among young adults. It serves as a somber reminder of the devastating impact these issues can have on individuals and their loved ones.