American rapper Lil Jon has confirmed the death of his son, Nathan Smith, after police found a body in a pond north of Atlanta, Georgia. Smith, 27, known professionally as DJ Young Slade, was a music producer, artist, engineer and New York University graduate.
In a joint statement with Smith's mother, Nicole Smith, Lil Jon said: "I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother and I are devastated." The rapper described his son as an "amazingly talented young man" and thanked the Milton police department for their efforts.
Nathan Smith left his home in Milton "under unusual circumstances" early on Tuesday morning, police said. He ran out of his house without a phone and was reported missing. Police and other agencies expanded the search to include a pond near his residence, where Cherokee county fire department divers found a body shortly before noon on Friday.
Police believe the body is Nathan Smith, pending official confirmation by the Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office. There is no indication of foul play, but the investigation remains open. No further details will be released until the cause and manner of death are determined.
Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, is a prominent figure in the crunk subgenre of hip-hop, known for hits such as 'Get Low' and 'Turn Down for What'.
