Imani Smith, who starred in "The Lion King" on Broadway from 2011 to 2012, died at the age of 26 after being stabbed by her partner. He is currently incarcerated awaiting the outcome of his court hearing.

She played the young Nala on Broadway in the musical "The Lion King" from 2011 to 2012. Imani Smith was found stabbed to death on December 21 in her home in Edison, New Jersey, local police reported in a statement relayed by the American press. Emergency services were called that morning, around 9 a.m., to report a stabbing.

Imani Smith was quickly transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, but it was unfortunately too late. The 26-year-old actress succumbed to her injuries. According to initial findings of the investigation, it appears to have been not an "accidental act of violence" but rather a femicide.

Indeed, the suspect, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, and the victim already knew each other, confirmed the deceased's aunt. The two were in a relationship. Jordan D. Jackson-Small "was arrested without incident and charged with first-degree murder, second-degree child endangerment, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon," the statement reads. He is currently incarcerated awaiting the results of his pretrial detention hearing.

"A lively and loving person"

“Imani had her whole life ahead of her. She was a vibrant, loving person with exceptional talent,” her aunt wrote sadly in a message accompanying an online fundraising campaign, which has already raised over $64,000 (approximately €54,000). “She leaves behind her 3-year-old son, her parents, her two siblings, her family, friends, and loved ones who cherished her,” she added.

The funds raised will help finance the funeral, clean up the crime scene and contribute to providing psychological care for the family.