In a shocking event over the weekend, Imani Dia Smith, a former Broadway star who played the role of Young Nala in Disney’s “The Lion King”, was brutally stabbed to death in her New Jersey home. Her boyfriend has been arrested and is facing serious charges in connection with her murder.
The heartbreaking incident occurred on December 21, when Smith was discovered with numerous stab wounds. Paramedics rushed her to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, but sadly, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Imani was just 26 years old.
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According to a joint announcement from Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Edison Police Chief Thomas Bryan on December 23, the suspect, identified as 35-year-old Jordan D. Jackson-Small, was apprehended following the incident. They indicated that there was a prior relationship between Jackson-Small and Smith, stressing that this was not a spontaneous act of violence.
Jackson-Small now faces multiple serious charges, including first-degree murder, second-degree endangerment of a child, third-degree unlawful weapon possession, and fourth-degree illegal possession of a weapon.
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In the wake of Smith’s untimely passing, her family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to honor her memory. The fundraiser has successfully amassed over $65,000, far surpassing its initial goal of $50,000. These donations will assist with covering funeral costs, cleaning up the crime scene at Imani’s residence, providing trauma therapy for her son, siblings, and parents, and helping with legal endeavors.
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Smith leaves behind her 3-year-old son, parents, two younger siblings, and a community of extended family and friends who cherished her dearly. The GoFundMe page reflects on the vibrancy of her life, evoking memories of a talented woman who had so much potential ahead of her. The tribute highlights her as a “triple-threat” performer with a spirit full of joy, creativity, and light, capturing her essence as Young Nala in Broadway’s “The Lion King.”
Source of the original article:Former Broadway actress stabbed to death in her New Jersey home, police say
