25-year-old actress stabbed to death, her boyfriend charged with first-degree murder

25-year-old actress stabbed to death, her boyfriend charged with first-degree murder

Actress Imani Dia Smith, who portrayed Young Nala in The Lion King, has been stabbed to death in the US state of New Jersey. She was 25. The incident occurred on Sunday, December 21, at her residence in Edison, according to police. Authorities said Smith sustained multiple stab wounds. Her boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, has been arrested in connection with the case.

Police received a 911 emergency call at around 9:18 a.m., reporting a stabbing. When officers arrived at the scene, Smith was found critically injured inside her Edison home. She was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where doctors pronounced her dead. The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office said an investigation was launched immediately after the incident.

Following preliminary investigations, 35-year-old Jackson-Small has been charged with first-degree murder, endangering the welfare of a child, and multiple counts related to unlawful possession of a weapon. Officials noted that Imani Smith and the accused were known to each other, indicating that the crime was not a random act of violence.

Smith is survived by her three-year-old son, who is currently under the care of her aunt. She was the sole breadwinner for her family. In the wake of her death, her aunt, Kira Helper, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Smith’s parents and child. The fundraiser describes Smith as a vibrant, loving and exceptionally talented performer. As of the latest update, more than $46,000 has been raised through the campaign.

By EP Web Desk

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