Something didn’t feel right the morning Nathan disappeared.
Phones were left behind, routines broken, and the air in Milton, Georgia, felt heavier than usual. Neighbors whispered, glances were exchanged, and uncertainty stretched on. What began as a normal morning for the 27-year-old soon spiraled into a crisis no one could have predicted—and the truth that followed shocked everyone holding their breath.
Nathan Smith, 27, son of rapper Lil Jon (Jonathan Smith) and musician DJ Young Slade, was reported missing after leaving home under unusual circumstances, prompting a major multi-agency search. Authorities said he was last seen on February 3, 2026, around 6 a.m., without his phone. Searches covered nearby neighborhoods, parks, and waterways, including Mayfield Park, with divers deployed in a desperate effort to locate him.
On February 6, officials announced that divers recovered a body from a pond near Smith’s home at 11:53 a.m. Preliminary reports indicate it is likely Nathan, though the Fulton County Medical Examiner will perform official identification and determine the cause of death. Authorities noted there is no current evidence of foul play, but the investigation remains active.
Lil Jon confirmed the heartbreaking news publicly, describing his son as talented, kind, and full of potential, and requested privacy for the family. Authorities echoed this request, urging respect for the grieving family as the investigation and medical examiner findings continue.
Conclusion
The Milton community is reeling from the sudden loss of Nathan Smith. In moments like these, privacy, compassion, and support are vital. As the family mourns and authorities complete their work, the hope is that Nathan’s memory will be honored, and the community will come together to provide strength during this time of profound grief.