Lion King Actor Imani Smith, 26, Murdered; Boyfriend Charged
Imani Smith, known for her role as Young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway, has tragically passed away. The 26-year-old actress was fatally stabbed on December 21 in Edison, New Jersey. The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the incident and the subsequent charges against her boyfriend.
Details of the Incident
Emergency responders arrived on the scene after a 911 call reported the stabbing. They found Smith suffering from serious stab wounds. She was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Charges Against Jordan D. Jackson-Small
Jordan D. Jackson-Small, aged 35, has been arrested in relation to Smith’s death. According to the Middlesex Prosecutor’s Office, Jackson-Small and Smith had a prior relationship, indicating that the violence was not random.
Charges Filed
- First-degree Murder
- Second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child
- Third-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose
- Fourth-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
Support for Smith’s Family
In the wake of Smith’s death, her aunt, Kira Helper, set up a GoFundMe page to support Imani’s grieving parents. The fundraising goal was set at $55,000 to assist them in caring for Imani’s young son and their other children during this difficult time.
Fundraising Progress
As of now, approximately $47,000 has been raised. Smith is survived by her 3-year-old son, her parents Monique Rance-Helper and Rawni Helper, her aunt, and two younger siblings.
This incident highlights the ongoing issues of domestic violence and the impact it can have on families and communities. The loss of a young talent like Imani Smith is deeply felt by many.
