Former Broadway actress Imani Smith fatally stabbed in New Jersey: Report

A former Broadway child star was fatally stabbed at her home in New Jersey over the weekend, CBS News reported Friday, citing the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office. 

Imani Smith, who was just 26-years-old, was found with multiple stab wounds in her Edison, New Jersey home on Sunday. She was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital and is survived by her parents and three-year-old son.

The former Broadway actress is known for playing Young Nala in The Lion King on Broadway from 2011 through 2012. She has been described by former cast mates as having a "great voice," and bringing energy to the role. 

The Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office charged 35-year-old Jordan Jackson-Small with the murder, along with second-degree endangering the welfare of a child and unlawful possession of a weapon. He is allegedly the father of Smith's son. 

A GoFundMe started by Smith’s aunt to raise funds for her family said Smith was allegedly “killed by her boyfriend."

“Imani had her whole life ahead of her,” her aunt wrote. “She was a vivacious, loving and fiercely talented person.”

Jackson-Small is being held at Middlesex County Adult Corrections Center as he awaits a court hearing, according to NBC News, though no court date has been announced. 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.