Rapper Lil Jon breaks silence over son, Nathan Smith’s death

Authorities in Milton, Georgia, have confirmed that a body recovered from a pond near a residential area is believed to be that of Nathan Smith, the son of American rapper Lil Jon, pending official identification by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office.

The discovery followed days of searching after Smith was reported missing earlier in the week. According to local officials, a missing persons report was filed on Tuesday, prompting a coordinated effort involving the Milton Police Department and the Cherokee County Fire Department.

Divers were later deployed as part of the operation, leading to the recovery of the body on Friday.

Police said preliminary assessments indicate that no foul play is suspected, although the Criminal Investigations Division has opened inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Hours after the development, Lil Jon and Smith’s mother, Nicole Smith, released a joint statement confirming the death and expressing deep sorrow over the loss.

“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother and I are devastated,” the statement read.

The rapper also thanked members of the public and security agencies who assisted in the search.

“Thank you for all of the prayers and support in trying to locate him over the last several days. Thank you to the entire Milton Police Department involved,” he added.

Lil Jon went on to reflect on his son’s life and achievements, describing him as “an amazingly talented young man.”

Nathan Smith was a music producer, artist, and engineer, and had graduated from New York University. He was also known in the music space by the stage name DJ Young Slade.

Lil Jon, a Grammy Award-winning artiste, is widely known for hit songs including “Get Low,” “Turn Down for What,” and “Shots,” and remains one of the most recognisable figures in American hip-hop.