Lil Jon Son DJ Young Slade Reported Missing, Police Post That He Might Be 'Disoriented and in Need of Assistance'

Police in Milton, Georgia have launched an urgent search for Nathan Smith, the 27-year-old son of Grammy Award-winning rapper Lil Jon. Known professionally as DJ Young Slade, Smith has carved out his own career in Atlanta's music scene. He was last seen on the morning of Tuesday, 3 February, leaving his home near the junction of Baldwin Drive and Mayfield Road in Milton at around 6:00 am.

The case has drawn widespread concern, not only because of Smith's family ties but also due to the troubling circumstances of his disappearance. Police say he left on foot without his mobile phone, making it difficult to trace his movements. Authorities have warned that he may be disoriented and in need of urgent assistance.

Concerns Over Well-being

The Milton Police Department has issued a bulletin stating that Smith 'ran out of his house and has been missing since'. Crucially, investigators noted that he left the residence on foot and did not take his mobile phone with him. This lack of a mobile phone makes it much harder for police to track his location using GPS signals, adding to the urgency of the search.

The police statement also highlighted a worrying detail regarding his mental state. Authorities said that Smith might be 'disoriented and in need of assistance'. While the police did not specify the cause of this confusion, such descriptions often suggest a medical or mental health concern that could put the individual at risk, especially if they are wandering near busy roads or wooded areas without a way to call for help.

Family Asking for Privacy

As the search continues, the family of Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, is requesting space to deal with the developing situation. A publicist for the rapper spoke to WXIA-TV, an NBC affiliate in Atlanta, regarding the family's stance. The representative stated that the 'family is asking for privacy at this time'.

While they have chosen not to release specific details about what led to Nathan leaving the house, the family remains hopeful. 'We are also asking for continued prayers for Nathan to come home safe,' the publicist added in the statement to the press.

Community Sightings and Reports

Since the police bulletin was posted on social media, local residents in Milton and the surrounding areas have been sharing potential sightings. These accounts, found in the comments section of the police department's Facebook post, have not yet been officially confirmed by law enforcement but offer potential leads.

One local resident claimed to have seen a man matching Smith's description on the day the alert was issued. The witness wrote: 'I saw someone that looked similar to him on North Point Parkway today, on foot crossing near the Chick-fil-A. He had on a colourful beanie and backpack. He stood out only because he was standing near my car with his thumb out.'

The witness noted the unusual behaviour, adding, 'We don't usually see someone "hitchhiking" but I could have misread the hand motion. I hope he's found safe and sound.'

Another resident posted a comment more recently, suggesting police activity in a nearby wooded area. 'I saw 3 police officers walking into the woods this morning by the tennis courts at Northwestern Middle School,' the comment read. Northwestern Middle School is located in the same general region where Smith was reported missing. These reports remain unconfirmed but are being reviewed by investigators.

Who Is DJ Young Slade?

Nathan Smith is well-known in the Atlanta music scene, having built a career separate from his father's massive global fame. Performing as DJ Young Slade and sometimes simply as Slade, he has worked as a DJ and a recording artist. His latest single, Feels, was released in March 2025.

His social media presence showed him active and engaged with peers. His latest Instagram post, dated 6 January, showed him enjoying time with rapper Bow Wow and manager Lil Will at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta.

Smith has also spoken publicly about the pressure and pride of being the son of a music icon. In 2024, he appeared on the MTV programme Family Legacy. During his interview, he discussed how he balances respecting his father's influence with carving out his own identity.

'It's dope to appreciate my dad, show respect, and just look at all the things he's done,' he said on the programme. 'It's nice to get the torch passed down and do my own thing... I'm definitely taking it and making it my own.'

Police Appeal for Information

Police are urging anyone who sees Nathan Smith or has information about his whereabouts to contact the Milton Police Department immediately at +1 678‑297‑6300 or via email at sarah.moore@miltonga.gov.