The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Wednesday that Nathan Smith, the 27-year-aged son of rapper Lil Jon, died from accidental drowning while under the influence of psilocybin, commonly known as magic mushrooms. The autopsy report detailed the presence of “a pharmacologically active hallucinogenic compound of psilocybin” in Smith’s bloodstream, according to reports from USA Today and Billboard.
Smith, who also performed as DJ Young Slade, was initially reported missing by the Milton Police Department in Georgia on February 3rd. Authorities discovered his body in a pond near his home three days later, on February 6th. The Cherokee County Fire Department’s dive team recovered the body, as stated in a Facebook post from the Milton Police Department.
Following the confirmation of his son’s death, Lil Jon released a statement expressing his grief. “I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith,” he said, as reported by E! News. “His mother and I are devastated.” He described his son as “the kindest human being you would ever meet,” emphasizing his caring nature and passion for his family and friends. “We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him,” Lil Jon added.
Smith was a graduate of New York University and worked as a music producer and engineer in addition to his work as a DJ.
The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the manner of death an accident. Psilocybin is a chemical found in certain types of mushrooms that can cause hallucinations and altered perceptions of time and space, according to the National Institutes of Health. Research is also being conducted into the potential therapeutic uses of psilocybin for substance abuse and mental health issues, as noted by Billboard.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Lil Jon’s representatives had not responded to requests for further comment, according to XXL.
