The Fulton County medical examiner has determined the cause of death for Nathan Smith. Officials listed the cause as “drowning in the setting of psilocybin use,” and the manner of death as an accident.
Nathan Smith, 27, performed under the name DJ Young Slade. He was reported missing on Feb. 3. Authorities found a body in a nearby pond three days later. Police said there was “no indication of foul play” in the case.
The Police Report
The report said toxicology showed psilocybin, the psychoactive ingredient in certain mushrooms. Investigators said the drug was a factor in the drowning. The medical examiner’s office provided the ruling on Friday.
Lil Jon confirmed his son’s death after rescue teams located a body in a park pond north of Atlanta. The discovery followed an extensive search by local crews. Family members had urged the public to keep them in their thoughts.
Milton police said Smith left his home early on the day he was reported missing. He departed without a phone and may have been disoriented, the department said. Officers released few other details while the medical examiner completed its work.
Friends and fellow artists reacted to the news on social media. They remembered Smith as a creative young musician. He had worked as a DJ, producer and engineer. He also had recently graduated from New York University.
Local rescue crews used divers to search ponds and other waterways. Those teams located the body that was later identified as the missing man. Fire and police officials thanked volunteers and urged people to avoid speculation while authorities finished the inquiry.
The medical examiner’s ruling ends the formal cause-of-death phase of the probe. Police said the investigation remains open. They asked anyone with relevant information to contact Milton authorities.
The medical examiner’s report closes one chapter in a painful story. Local authorities said the investigation remains open for procedural reasons. Milton police asked anyone with information to contact their investigators.
Lil Jon is known for hits like “Get Low.” He also has a young daughter, Nahara. The family has asked for privacy while they grieve. The rapper recently said he was grateful to have had time with his son before his death