The search for rapper Lil Jon’s missing son, Nathan Smith, has taken a tragic turn.
On Friday, Feb. 6, police in Milton, Georgia said a body found in a pond was that of Smith.
“A approximately 11:53 a.m., divers with the Cherokee County Fire Department located and recovered a body from the pond,” the Milton Police Department said in a news release. “The individual is believed to be Nathan Smith.”
Lil Jon and estranged wife, Nicole Smith, confirmed their son’s death in a statement on social media.
“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother [Nicole Smith] and I are devastated,” the statement read. “Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet. He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted — he loved his family and friends in his life to the fullest.”
Nathan, 27, worked in the music industry and was known professionally as DJ Young Slade.
His parents highlighted his achievements, saying in their statement he graduated from New York University and was a music producer, artist and engineer.
The Georgia resident was reported missing on Feb. 3, after leaving his home in the area of Baldwin Drive in Milton, outside of Atlanta.
Police said he “ran out of his house” and was not carrying his phone. The department described the circumstances as “unusual.”
Atlanta news station 11Alive reported earlier this week that Smith wasn’t wearing any clothes when he left home, and “had none of his belongings.”
The police department said Friday multiple agencies were called in to assist with the search, which was expanded “to include a pond in Mayfield Park near Smith’s Milton residence.”
There was no indication of foul play in Nathan’s death, police said. However, detectives will continue to handle the case as an active and open investigation.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Smith family during this difficult time. The department respectfully asks the community and members of the media to honor the family’s request for privacy as they grieve and navigate this tragedy,” police said.
The Fulton County Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of Smith’s death.
Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, is a Grammy-winning rapper and producer, best known for his hit singles “Turn Down for What,” “Snap Yo Fingers,” “Bend Ova,” and “Get Low.”
The image above of Lil Jon and son Nathan Smith is courtesy of Shutterstock and Fox 5 Atlanta.
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