Rapper Lil Jon and his family are grieving after the tragic death of his son, Nathan Smith, also known in the music world as DJ Young Slade.

More Details About Nathan Smith’s Death

According to PEOPLE, Smith, 27, had been reported missing earlier this week after leaving his home in Milton, Georgia, without a phone in what authorities described as unusual circumstances. Police issued a missing person alert on Feb. 3, and family members, friends, and law enforcement searched for him for several days.

On Feb. 6, divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department recovered a body from a pond near Smith’s residence. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office will make the official identification and determine the cause and manner of death, but law enforcement said there is currently no indication of foul play.

In a joint statement shared on social media, Lil Jon born Jonathan Smith, and Nathan’s mother, Nicole Smith, confirmed the heartbreaking news and expressed deep sorrow.

“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother and I are devastated,” the statement reads. They described Nathan as “kind, thoughtful, warmhearted” and praised his passion for music and the meaningful relationships he maintained in his life.

Smith was a music producer, artist, and engineer who had graduated from New York University and carved his own path in the industry while honoring the legacy of his father. Friends and family remember him as caring and passionate, with a creative spirit that extended beyond his work as a DJ.

Authorities have asked the community and media to respect the family’s request for privacy as they grieve and await further details from the medical examiner.

Lil Jon, who rose to fame with hits like “Get Low” and “Turn Down for What,” also has a young daughter. The family’s loss has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans, peers, and fellow artists across social media.