Authorities in Georgia say a body believed to be that of the 27-year-old son of rapper Lil Jon was discovered near the family’s home several days after he was reported missing.
Police in Milton said the body was found Friday in a pond close to the residence. The individual has not yet been formally identified, pending confirmation by the medical examiner’s office, which will also determine the cause and manner of death.
The missing man, identified by police as Nathan Smith, was reported missing early Tuesday morning. Authorities said officers were called to the home around 6 a.m. after Smith was last seen running out of the residence. Investigators initially said he may have been disoriented and in need of assistance at the time he left.
In an update released Friday, police described Smith’s departure from the home as occurring under “unusual circumstances.” However, investigators said there is currently no indication that foul play was involved. The case remains open and active as authorities await the medical examiner’s findings.
In a statement, police extended condolences to the family and urged the public and media to respect their privacy. “We respectfully ask the community and members of the media to honor the family’s request for privacy as they grieve and navigate this tragedy,” the department said.
Smith was known professionally as DJ Young Slade. A representative for Lil Jon, whose legal name is Jonathan Smith, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Officials emphasized that additional details will be released only after the identification is confirmed and forensic examinations are complete. Until then, police said the investigation will continue as standard procedure in missing-person cases that result in a death.
