A 26-year-old former Broadway star was stabbed to death in New Jersey, police say.
Stabbing and Investigation
Edison police officers were called to a home on Sunday morning after reports of a stabbing. They found 26-year-old Imani Dia Smith, who was taken to a hospital and pronounced dead.
Victim and Family
Smith, who survived a 3-year-old son, was known for playing young Nala in “The Lion King” on Broadway from 2011 to 2012. Her mother is a hair stylist who worked in theater and television productions, including “The Lion King” show and the film adaptation of “In the Heights.”
A GoFundMe page was started by Smith’s aunt, who wrote that she was “killed by her boyfriend.” The aunt also said, “Imani had her whole life ahead of her,” adding that “She was a vivacious, loving and fiercely talented person.”
Arrest and Charges
The investigation led to the arrest of Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, who knew Smith. He is charged with first-degree murder, second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon. Jackson-Small is being held at the Middlesex County Adult Corrections Center awaiting a court hearing, and court records show no attorney listed.
Key Takeaways
- Imani Dia Smith, 26, was stabbed to death in New Jersey.
- Boyfriend Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, arrested and charged with murder and weapons offenses.
- Smith starred as young Nala in “The Lion King” on Broadway from 2011-2012.
The case highlights a tragic loss of a young talent and the ongoing legal proceedings against the accused.
