Tragedy has struck the family of rapper Lil Jon after the body of his 27-year-old son was found near his Georgia home days after he was reported missing.
Authorities said Nathan Smith, who performed under the name DJ Young Slade, was reported missing early Tuesday morning after he was last seen running out of his home in Milton, Georgia. On Friday, police confirmed that a body believed to be Smith’s was discovered in a pond close to the residence.
Officials said the medical examiner will make the official identification and determine the cause and manner of death.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Smith family during this difficult time,” police said in a statement. “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.”
Lil Jon, whose real name is Jonathan Smith, confirmed the devastating news in a heartfelt post on Instagram.
“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother, Nicole Smith, and I are devastated,” he wrote. “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.”
The rapper went on to highlight his son’s talent and accomplishments, calling him “an amazingly talented young man” who worked as a music producer, artist, and engineer. Smith was also a graduate of New York University.
“We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him,” Lil Jon wrote. “He was loved and appreciated, and in our last times together, we were comforted in knowing that we expressed that very sentiment to him.”
He also thanked supporters who helped search for his son in the days leading up to the discovery. “Thank you for all of the prayers and support in trying to locate him over the last several days,” he added.
Police said officers were first called to the home around 6 a.m. Tuesday. Investigators believe Smith may have been disoriented when he left the house and was in need of assistance. While authorities described his departure as occurring under “unusual circumstances,” they said foul play is not currently suspected.
The investigation remains open as officials await the medical examiner’s findings.