Milton, Georgia — February 6, 2026

A body believed to be that of 27-year-old Nathan Smith, better known as DJ Young Slade and the son of Grammy-winning rapper Lil Jon, was recovered Friday afternoon in a pond near his home in Milton, Georgia, police say.

Officials with the Milton Police Department reported that search and rescue teams discovered the body around 11:53 a.m. EST in a pond at Mayfield Park after a multi-day effort to locate Smith, who had been reported missing earlier in the week. Authorities said it is believed to be Smith, though positive identification and official cause of death are pending confirmation from the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Missing Person Search

🕊️ BREAKING: Lil Jon’s son DJ Young Slade has died. He was 27.

Everything we know: https://t.co/jJWe2CAmID pic.twitter.com/fhSYEtXZSK

— TMZ (@TMZ) February 6, 2026

Nathan Smith, known professionally as DJ Young Slade, was first reported missing on February 3, after he left his home in Milton around 6 a.m. and did not return. Police said he left without his phone and described his disappearance as unusual, and noted he might have been disoriented and in need of assistance.

Search efforts included ground teams, K-9 units, and divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department, who focused on nearby bodies of water including the pond where the body was ultimately found.

Police Statement & Investigation

At this time, investigators have not indicated any signs of foul play, but the case remains open as the medical examiner conducts testing and officials review all investigative leads. Authorities are asking the public and media to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.

Family & Legacy

Smith — who followed in his father’s footsteps in pursuing music — was a local performer and DJ, and had built a presence under his stage name DJ Young Slade. Prior to his disappearance, he had recently released music and was active in the Atlanta music scene.

Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, is acclaimed for his contributions to hip-hop and crunk music, with hits that defined early-2000s club culture. Smith shared Nathan with his former wife, Nicole Smith, and the family had been appealing for prayers and help in finding him safely before the tragic recovery.

What’s Next

Authorities will continue to investigate and await the medical examiner’s official findings on identity and cause of death. More updates are expected as developments unfold.