Search Intensifies for DJ Young Slade, Son of Rapper Lil Jon, in Metro Atlanta

A missing person flyer issued by the Milton Police Department details the disappearance of 27-year-old Nathan Smith in Milton, Georgia, on Tuesday. Smith, also known as DJ Young Slade and the son of rapper Lil Jon, was last seen leaving his home on foot and may be disoriented. (Courtesy of Milton Police Department)

The music world is rallying around Lil Jon as police in Georgia intensify the search for his adult son, Nathan Smith.

Smith, a 27-year-old DJ and producer who performs under the name DJ Young Slade, was reported missing on Tuesday morning in Milton, Georgia. According to the Milton Police Department, Smith was last seen around 6 a.m. near the intersection of Baldwin Drive and Mayfield Road, an area about 30 miles north of downtown Atlanta.

The circumstances of the disappearance are concerning. Authorities state that Smith "ran out of his house" on foot and did not take his phone with him. The police advisory noted he "may be disoriented and in need of assistance," leading friends and family to fear for his safety.

In a statement released to the press on Wednesday, a representative for Lil Jon addressed the situation briefly but poignantly.

"The family is asking for privacy at this time," the statement read. "We are also asking for continued prayers for Nathan to come home safe. Thank you."

Search crews were spotted scouring the neighborhood and the nearby Mayfield Lake on Tuesday afternoon, though no significant leads have been publicly reported.

Smith is the only child of Lil Jon (born Jonathan Smith) and his ex-wife, Nicole Smith. He has spent much of his life following in his father’s footsteps, carving out his own lane in the industry as a DJ. The two have frequently appeared together at red carpet events and in the booth, sharing a close bond that the elder Smith has often spoken about with pride.

"It’s literally in your kid’s genes to do what you do," Lil Jon said in a 2023 interview. "He was destined to be in the music business."

Smith is described as 5 feet, 9 inches tall, weighing approximately 150 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. Police have urged anyone who spots him or has information regarding his whereabouts to contact the Milton Police Department at 678-297-6300.