Lil Jon has confirmed the tragic death of his son, Nathan Smith, following a prolonged search. “We are devastated,” he expressed

Rapper Lil Jon has released a poignant statement confirming the tragic passing of his 27-year-old son, Nathan Smith, who had been missing for several days before authorities discovered a body thought to be his in a pond close to the family’s residence.

In a heartfelt message posted on social media, the Grammy-winning artist, known as Jonathan Smith, expressed, “I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith.” We are heartbroken, his mother [Nicole Smith] and I. He portrayed Nathan as “the kindest human being you would ever meet,” emphasizing his caring, thoughtful, and warmhearted nature.

Lil Jon commended his son’s diverse abilities, highlighting his achievements as a skilled music producer, artist, and engineer, as well as his graduation from New York University. “We cherished Nathan deeply and are immensely proud of him,” the statement continued, conveying solace that the family had expressed their love for him in their last moments together.

Nathan, known as DJ Young Slade, was reported missing on February 3 after departing from his home in Milton, Georgia, early in the morning without his phone, which led to a multi-agency search effort. Authorities indicated that he might have been confused during his absence, prompting extensive search efforts that involved K-9 units and volunteers.

On February 6, divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department retrieved a body from a pond in Mayfield Park, which authorities suspect to be Nathan’s, awaiting official identification by the Fulton County Medical Examiner. Authorities have indicated that there is no evidence of foul play, although the investigation is still ongoing.

Lil Jon and his family have expressed gratitude to law enforcement and volunteers for their support and have requested privacy as they navigate this profound loss.