Lil Jon' Son Nathan Smith Cause of Death Revealed: DJ Slade Reportedly Died Accidentally

The Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office has confirmed that Nathan Smith, the son of rapper and producer Lil Jon, died accidentally, concluding weeks of forensic analysis into his sudden disappearance last month. The 27-year-old, who performed under the stage name DJ Slade, was found in a pond in Fairburn, Georgia, in early February after being reported missing by his family.

Authorities have officially categorised the incident as an accidental death, with the primary cause identified as drowning in the context of psilocybin use. Investigators found no evidence of external trauma or foul play at the scene where the body was recovered.

Medical Examiner Confirms Psilocybin Use and Accidental Drowning

The medical report identified the cause of death as 'drowning in the setting of psilocybin use.' Psilocybin is a naturally occurring hallucinogenic compound found in certain types of fungi, commonly referred to as 'magic mushrooms'. Toxicology results indicated that the substance influenced Smith's state of mind before he entered the water, and investigators concluded that the hallucinogen likely impaired his coordination or perception of his surroundings.

The medical examiner's findings align with the initial absence of suspicious evidence found near the water's edge. With the release of the report, the legal and forensic aspects of the investigation have largely concluded.

Missing Person Search Ends in Discovery Near Atlanta Pond

The timeline leading to the discovery began when Nathan Smith was reported missing after he failed to contact his family for several days. This prompted an intensive search operation. Local police utilised various resources to track his last known movements and identify potential witnesses.

Volunteers and friends of the DJ also joined the effort in finding him. The days of gruelling search ended in tragedy when Smith's body was spotted in a pond within the local vicinity. Rescuers recovered the remains, and the individual was soon identified and confirmed as the missing Nathan Smith.

The site was initially designated a crime scene to preserve potential evidence while the cause of death remained unclear. The final report confirms that his death involved no criminal intent or third-party involvement.

Lil Jon and Estranged Wife Release Joint Statement

Shortly after, Lil Jon and his estranged wife, Nicole Smith, broke their silence, announcing the 'tragic loss of our son.' The couple issued a joint statement to the public, expressing their devastation while thanking the authorities and volunteers for their support.

The statement highlighted the deep bond between the rapper and his son, noting that Nathan was 'the kindest human being you would ever meet.' Lil Jon, who previously appeared on the television series 'Celebrity Apprentice', had a well-documented and solid relationship with his late son. Nathan followed his father's footsteps into the music industry, establishing a respectable reputation as a DJ in his own right.

Lil Jon frequently shared moments of their professional and personal lives on social media, showcasing their shared passion for music. The loss of DJ Slade has resonated with many who saw him as a rising talent following a legacy of success.

While the family continues to mourn, the finalised report provides the answers they sought regarding that fateful day in Georgia.