Son of Rapper Lil Jon Found Deceased After Going Missing
The son of rapper Lil Jon is believed to have been found dead several days after he went missing from his home in the state of Georgia, according to authorities.
Nathan Smith, a rapper known professionally as DJ Young Slade, was reported missing after police stated he left his residence early Tuesday without his phone.
Following an extensive search, the Milton Police Department announced that a body, believed to be Smith’s, was discovered in a nearby pond. The Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office is conducting tests to confirm the identity officially, police said.
"Based on the investigation to date, there is no indication of foul play,"police added, noting that the investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death will continue.
Family Statement and Background
Grammy Award-winning artist Lil Jon, recognized for hits such as "Yeah!" and "Turn Down For What," issued a statement to expressing deep sorrow alongside Smith’s mother, Nicole Smith.
"Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet. He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted,"Lil Jon said.
"We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him. He was loved and appreciated, and in our last times together we're comforted in knowing that we expressed that very sentiment to him."
Details of Disappearance and Discovery
Authorities were alerted to Smith’s disappearance on Tuesday morning after the 27-year-old left his home under what police described as "unusual circumstances."
An initial missing person poster released by law enforcement indicated that Smith departed on foot and
"may be disoriented and in need of assistance."Family and friends expressed concern for his well-being.
The pond where the body was found on Friday morning is located close to Smith’s residence in Milton, a city approximately 30 miles (48 km) north of Atlanta, where Lil Jon established his music career.
Personal and Professional Life
Lil Jon and his son were often seen together publicly, including last year when they appeared as contestants on an episode of the television game show Family Feud.
"He was an amazingly talented young man; a music producer, an artist and engineer, and graduate of NYU,"Lil Jon wrote in his statement.
Police have stated that no further information will be released until the medical examiners determine the cause and manner of death.
