Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, the boyfriend of Imani Dia Smith, known for playing young Nala in the Broadway show The Lion King, has been charged with first-degree murder of the actress. According to law enforcement authorities, he stabbed her to death at her home leading to her demise.
Police responded to a 911 call at about 9:18 a.m. on Dec. 21 after reports of a stabbing at a residence on Grove Avenue. Investigators found Imani with multiple stab wounds; she was taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Jackson-Small was arrested and has also been charged with endangering the welfare of a child and weapons-related offences, officials said. Authorities say Jackson-Small is being held at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Centre pending a pre-trial hearing. Prosecutors have not publicly released a motive.
Imani Dia Smith, who gained early recognition for portraying Young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway from 2011–2012, is survived by her 3-year-old son, her parents, two younger siblings and extended family.
Summary: Jordan D. Jackson-Small, the boyfriend of Imani Dia Smith, known for playing young Nala in the Broadway show The Lion King, has been charged with murder following her death at age 26. Police say Imani was fatally stabbed at her New Jersey home, and Jackson-Small is being held in custody as investigations continue.
