The vibrant life of Imani Dia Smith was cut short on the morning of Sunday, December 21, 2025. Authorities in Edison, New Jersey, responded to a 911 call reporting a stabbing at a local residence. Upon arrival, police found Smith with multiple stab wounds. She was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where she was tragically pronounced dead.
Arrest and Charges On Tuesday, December 23, Middlesex County prosecutors announced the arrest of Smith’s boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35. Officials confirmed the two were in a relationship and stated the attack was "not a random act of violence." Jackson-Small faces several severe charges, including:
- First-degree murder
- Second-degree endangering the welfare of a child
- Third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose
A Legacy of Talent Smith was a "triple-threat" performer who rose to fame playing Young Nala in the Broadway production of The Lion King from 2011 to 2012. Her family described her as a "vivacious, loving, and fiercely talented person" who brought immense light into the world through her creativity.
She is survived by her three-year-old son, who was reportedly present at the home during the incident but physically unharmed. Her parents, Monique Rance-Helper (a noted Broadway hair stylist) and Rawni Helper, are now stepping in to raise their grandson.
