Hip-hop icon Lil Jon has confirmed the devastating death of his son, Nathan Smith, whose body was recovered from a pond in Georgia on Friday, bringing a heartbreaking end to an intense days-long search.
In a deeply personal statement, Lil Jon and Nathan's mother, Nicole Smith, said they are "extremely heartbroken" and "devastated," asking for compassion as they grieve an unimaginable loss.
Nathan Smith, 27 - known in music circles as DJ Young Slade - was reported missing on February 3 after he was last seen running barefoot from his home without his phone. Authorities launched an urgent search before confirming the tragic discovery days later. Officials have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.
Beyond his musical aspirations, Smith was a gifted and driven young man. He was a graduate of New York University, balancing creative ambition with academic achievement - a life marked by promise, intelligence, and potential.
News of his death has sent shockwaves through the music community and beyond, with fans and fellow artists flooding social media with tributes, prayers, and messages of support. What began as fear has now turned into collective mourning.
As Lil Jon - a figure known globally for high-energy anthems and cultural influence - now faces the quiet devastation of personal loss, many are pausing to reflect on the fragility of life and the pain no parent should have to endure.
Please keep Lil Jon, Nicole Smith, and the entire Smith family in your prayers during this time of profound grief.
