Broadway Star Imani Smith Killed in Tragic Domestic Violence Incident

A former child star, a toddler left motherless, and a father behind bars: Imani Smith’s death has devastated her family and shocked the nation.

Imani Smith, 26, who captivated audiences as Young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway, was fatally stabbed in her Edison, New Jersey home early Sunday, December 21, 2025. Police responded to a frantic 911 call at 9:18 a.m. and found Smith with multiple stab wounds. She was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Father of Child Arrested

Authorities arrested Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, of Edison, the father of Smith’s 3-year-old son. He faces multiple charges:

• First-degree murder

• Second-degree endangering the welfare of a child

• Third-degree unlawful possession of a weapon

• Fourth-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose

Jackson-Small was taken into custody without incident and remains held at Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center. Prosecutors confirmed the attack “was not random.” Miraculously, the toddler survived unharmed.

Broadway Community Mourns

Smith’s death sent shockwaves through the Broadway world. Her mother, Monique Rance-Helper, a renowned hairstylist for theater and TV productions, now faces the painful task of raising her grandson alongside her younger children. Smith’s mother and her partner, Rawni Helper, are managing grief while caring for the family.

Family Launches Fundraiser

A GoFundMe campaign launched by Smith’s aunt, Kira Helper, seeks to cover funeral costs, memorial services, trauma therapy, and childcare. The campaign also highlights the family’s need to care for Smith’s dog, Kuro.

“Imani was a vivacious, loving, and fiercely talented person,” Helper wrote. “She brought joy, creativity, and light wherever she went.”

Social Media Outrage

Fans and netizens have expressed anger and sorrow online. One user posted, “Imani Smith had her whole life ahead of her. This has to stop.” Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Detective Kevin Kirsh of the Edison Police Department or Detective Olivia Ankudowicz at the Prosecutor’s Office.

Another Tragedy Hits the Community

Just hours after Smith’s death, 13-year-old Jaleeyah Tune was shot and killed in Goldsboro, North Carolina, in broad daylight. Police arrested three teenage boys, ages 15 and 16, in connection with the murder.

Jaleeyah’s older sister, 14-year-old J’Sheeyah Tune, recalled the horrific scene:

“I held her in her last moments. She looked so scared. I was scared too. I didn’t want to wipe the blood off. I still felt her presence.”

Her mother, Whitney Brown-Tune, described Jaleeyah as a “miracle baby” who had defied the odds from birth.

A GoFundMe campaign honoring Jaleeyah has already raised over $12,000 to cover burial and memorial expenses.

A Season Marked by Loss

These tragedies highlight the fragility of life and the devastating consequences of violence. Families and communities are now grappling with grief, while authorities continue investigations into both cases.