Photo Credit:Manny Carabel/WireImage
Authorities in Milton, Georgia, have launched an urgent search for Nathan Murray Smith, the 27-year-old son of Grammy-winning producer and rapper Lil Jon. Smith, who performs under the name DJ Young Slade, was reported missing. This sparked widespread concern throughout the Atlanta music community. According to the Milton Police Department, Smith was last seen at approximately 6:00 a.m. at his residence near Baldwin Drive and Mayfield Road. In a particularly concerning detail, investigators noted that Smith “ran out of his house” on foot and did not take his mobile phone with him, leaving him without a means of communication or GPS tracking.
The search for the young DJ intensified throughout the week as law enforcement shifted their focus to the Mayfield Park and Mayfield Lake areas. The mobilization has been extensive, involving K-9 units, including a specialized bloodhound from the Haralson County Sheriff’s Office, as well as aviation support and dive teams to scour the local waterways and dense wooded terrain. Police have officially stated that Smith may be “disoriented and in need of assistance,” urging local residents to check their property and home security footage for any sightings of a man matching his description.
Nathan Smith has established a significant career of his own, graduating from NYU’s prestigious Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music and recently appearing on MTV’s Family Legacy to discuss his father’s influence. Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, released a brief statement through a representative asking for privacy and “continued prayers” for his son’s safe return. The rapper immediately canceled several public appearances to remain in Georgia and assist with the ongoing search efforts.
Smith is described as being 5’9” tall and weighing approximately 150 pounds, with brown eyes and short black hair. A key identifying feature noted by authorities is a distinctive lip tattoo located on his right collarbone. As of February 5, 2026, the search remains active, with the Milton Police Department requesting that anyone with information contact 911 or their Criminal Investigations Division immediately. The local community has remained on high alert as the window for a safe recovery continues to be the primary focus of federal and local agencies involved in the case.
