Nathan Smith, the 27-year-old son of rapper and producer Lil Jon, has been found dead following a search in Milton, Georgia. Smith had been reported missing earlier this week, prompting an intensive police operation.
Authorities later discovered a body believed to be Smith in a pond near his home on Friday morning. The Milton Police Department confirmed that divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department recovered the body at approximately 11:53 a.m.
Police said Smith left his home on foot on Tuesday morning without a mobile phone. At the time, officers stated that he may have been disoriented and in need of assistance.
In a joint statement, Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, and Nathan’s mother, Nicole Smith, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of their son.
“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother and I are devastated,” the statement read.
They described him as a deeply compassionate person who touched many lives.
“He 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.”
An NYU graduate and music producer who performed as DJ Young Slade, Smith was praised by his father as an exceptionally gifted young man.
“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.”
The Milton Police Department has confirmed that there is currently no indication of foul play. However, the investigation remains active, and the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office is yet to release the official cause and manner of death. The family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss.
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