Imani Dia Smith, a Broadway actress best known for playing Young Nala in The Lion King stage production, has been stabbed to death at her home in New Jersey, United States. She was 25.
Police said officers responded to a distress call on December 21 and found Smith with multiple stab wounds. She was rushed to a hospital where she was confirmed dead.
Her boyfriend, 35-year-old Jordan Jackson-Small, has been arrested in connection with the incident.
Authorities said the two knew each other and described the killing as not a random attack.
Jackson-Small is facing several charges, including first-degree murder and child endangerment. He is currently being held in custody pending a court hearing.
Smith is survived by her three-year-old son, parents, siblings and extended family. Her family has launched a fundraiser to support funeral arrangements and care for her child.
