Atlanta rapper Lil Jon is grieving the loss of his 27-year-old son, Nathan Smith, whose body was recovered Friday in a Georgia pond after being reported missing earlier this week. 

Smith, who performed under the stage name DJ Young Slade, was last seen leaving his home in Milton, Georgia on Feb. 3 without his phone. Family and friends grew concerned when he did not return or make contact, prompting a search that involved local police and emergency crews. On Friday afternoon, divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department located a body in a pond near Mayfield Park believed to be Smith’s, authorities said. 

In a joint statement posted to social media, Lil Jon and Smith’s mother, Nicole Smith, described their son as a loving, kind, and passionate young man. “Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet,” they wrote, expressing deep heartbreak at the loss. The family asked for privacy as they mourn his passing. 

Smith was a graduate of New York University and pursued music production and performance, a passion he shared with his father. Lil Jon praised Smith’s talent and character in his message, highlighting his son’s warmhearted nature and his connection with family and friends. 

The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death. Police said there is currently no indication of foul play in the case, though the investigation remains ongoing. 

The news has drawn an outpouring of support from community members and fans alike, with many paying tribute to Smith’s life and contributions as both an artist and individual. As the family grieves, the focus remains on honoring his memory and requesting space to mourn this profound loss.