### Tragic Loss of a Broadway Star
In a heart-wrenching event just days before Christmas, the Broadway community mourns the untimely passing of Imani Dia Smith, a cherished former child star known for her role as Young Nala in Broadway’s “The Lion King.” Smith, who was only 26 years old, died on December 21, following a tragic incident that has shocked her family, friends, and fans alike.
### Incident Details
Imani was discovered by police in Edison, New Jersey, in response to a distressing 911 call made at 9:18 a.m. The authorities arrived to find her with multiple stab wounds. Despite immediate transport to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The Middlesex Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed the unfolding details of this tragic event.
### Legal Proceedings
In connection with this heartbreaking case, Smith’s boyfriend, 35-year-old Jordan D. Jackson-Small, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder. Additional charges include second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon. The nature of the charges indicates the severity of the situation, prompting the community to seek answers and justice.
### Family and Community Support
Reacting to this devastating loss, Imani’s aunt, Kira Helper, has established a GoFundMe page aimed at raising funds to support Smith’s parents, Monique Rance and Rawni Helper. Both parents have now taken on the roles of guardians for Smith’s three-year-old son, along with her beloved dog, Kuro. Monique, a hairdresser with a noteworthy career in Broadway, TV, and film, has worked on 25 different projects, underscoring a family deeply rooted in the performing arts.
### Fundraising Efforts
The GoFundMe campaign launched by Helper highlights the financial burden that accompanies such a shocking loss. The funds raised are intended to cover essential costs including funeral arrangements, legal expenses, crime scene cleanup, and trauma therapy for Smith’s young son, siblings, and parents. Kira has noted the emotional toll that this tragedy takes, emphasizing that the “true cost of trauma, loss, and long-term healing is impossible to know right now.”
### A Remembered Talent
Imani’s aunt wrote beautifully about her niece, capturing her spirit: “Imani had her whole life ahead of her. She was a vivacious, loving and fiercely talented person. A true triple-threat performer.” Her performance in “The Lion King” resonated not only with those who watched her on stage but also with a broader audience. Her impact, even in her short life, reflects the immeasurable contributions she made to the arts and her community.
### Community Response
At the time of publishing, the GoFundMe page had successfully raised $60,859—evidence of the widespread love and support for Smith’s family. The initial goal of $50,000 was established as a starting point to assist with the various expenses they face during this tumultuous period. The outpouring of support signifies how deeply she touched the lives of those around her, and how her legacy will continue to inspire even in her absence.