Three days after being reported missing in Georgia, Lil Jon’s Son, Nathan Smith, Was Found Dead in a Georgia Pond Three Days After He Went Missing, according to authorities. The 27-year-old’s body was recovered on Friday, February 6, from a pond located near his home, bringing a devastating end to an intensive search.
In a statement shared on Facebook, the Milton Police Department confirmed the recovery. Officials said that on February 6, 2026, at approximately 11:53 a.m., divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department located and retrieved a body from the pond. While the individual is believed to be Nathan Smith, final identification is pending confirmation from the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Police noted that there are currently no signs of foul play. However, they emphasized that the case remains an open and active investigation until the medical examiner determines the official cause and manner of death. Authorities stated that no additional details will be released until that process is complete.
Following the heartbreaking news, Lil Jon shared a deeply emotional statement with Billboard. “I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of my son, Nathan Smith,” he said. “His mother and I are devastated.”
He went on to describe Nathan as a remarkably gentle and loving person. “Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet,” Lil Jon shared. “He was caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted. He loved his family and his friends with his whole heart.”
The rapper also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and the efforts of law enforcement and emergency responders who participated in the search. He highlighted Nathan’s creative talents, noting that his son was a gifted music producer, artist, and engineer, as well as a graduate of New York University.
“We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him,” Lil Jon added. “He was deeply loved and appreciated, and we find comfort in knowing that we made sure he felt that love in our final moments together.”
Nathan was first reported missing on the evening of Tuesday, February 3, after he reportedly ran out of his home. At the time, police warned that he might be disoriented and in need of assistance, urging the public to remain alert as family and friends feared for his safety.
When early search efforts did not lead to any results, authorities expanded their investigation area to include a nearby pond in Mayfield Park, close to the family’s Milton residence. It was there that responders ultimately made the tragic discovery.
Like his father, Nathan had a strong connection to music and created tracks under the name DJ Young Slade. He was the only child of Lil Jon and Nicole Smith, who were married for nearly 18 years before separating in 2022. Lil Jon also shares a young daughter, Nahara, with his current partner, business owner Jamila Sozahdah.