The period of uncertainty lasted several days in Milton, Georgia, before officials announced that the search had taken a deeply sad turn. Nathan Smith, the 27-year-old son of Lil Jon, whose legal name is Jonathan Smith, and a musician known as DJ Young Slade, had been reported missing after leaving his home under unusual circumstances. As concern grew, the situation quickly developed into a large, coordinated search involving multiple agencies.
Authorities reported that Smith was last seen on February 3, 2026, after departing his residence around 6 a.m. without his phone. This detail raised immediate concern and led to an extensive search in and around his neighborhood. Over time, search efforts concentrated on nearby areas, including Mayfield Park and surrounding bodies of water, where specialized teams were deployed to assist.
On Friday, February 6, investigators announced that divers had recovered a body from a pond near Smith’s home shortly before noon. Officials stated they believe the individual is Smith, while explaining that the Fulton County Medical Examiner will make the official identification and determine the cause and manner of death. At this stage, investigators indicated there were no signs suggesting criminal activity, though the case remains under review.
Later, Lil Jon confirmed the loss through a public statement shared with media outlets, remembering his son as a kind and creative individual. He also requested privacy as the family processes their grief. Authorities echoed this message, asking the public to be respectful while official findings are finalized and the circumstances surrounding the case continue to be examined.