Former Broadway child star Imani Dia Smith, 26, was found dead with stab wounds on December 21, 2025, in Edison, New Jersey, according to authorities.
Police responded to a 911 call at 9:18 AM on Sunday and discovered Smith with stab wounds at a residence. She was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where she was pronounced dead.
Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35 years old, was arrested on December 23, without incident, and charged with first-degree murder in connection with Smith’s death. He also faces charges of endangering the welfare of a child and weapon possession charges. Jackson-Small is being held at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center.
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Edison Police Chief Thomas Bryan confirmed that Smith and Jackson-Small knew each other before the incident. The case was not a random act of violence, authorities said. Jackson-Small has been identified as Smith’s boyfriend.
Smith gained recognition for playing Young Nala in The Lion King on Broadway from September 27, 2011, to September 23, 2012. The role showcased her talents as a performer during her childhood years on one of Broadway’s most celebrated stages.
Her aunt, Kira Helper, created a GoFundMe campaign to support the family during this difficult time. The fundraiser has a goal of $55,000 and has raised over $60,000, as of December 25.
Smith is survived by a three-year-old son, making her death particularly tragic for the young child left behind. She also leaves behind her mother, Monique Rance-Helper, who works as a Broadway and television hairdresser. Her father Rawni Helper and two siblings also survive her.
Monique Rance-Helper has built a career in the entertainment industry as a hairdresser, working on numerous Broadway productions and television projects. Her professional connections in the theater community have brought an outpouring of support following her daughter’s death.
Smith’s death has shocked the Broadway community and those who remembered her performances as a child. Her time in The Lion King represented a significant achievement for a young performer, as the production remains one of the longest-running and most successful shows in Broadway history.
The GoFundMe campaign established by Helper aims to provide financial support for funeral expenses and other costs associated with the tragedy.
The Broadway community has long been known for supporting its members during difficult times. Smith’s connection to one of Disney’s most beloved stage productions has brought attention to her death from theater professionals and fans alike.
Jackson-Small’s arrest followed an investigation by Edison police and the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office. Authorities moved quickly to make an arrest in the case, taking Jackson-Small into custody without incident following their investigation.
The case highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence, as authorities confirmed the victim and suspect knew each other. The relationship between Smith and Jackson-Small was confirmed by both law enforcement and family members.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to gather additional information about the circumstances surrounding Smith’s death. The case remains active as prosecutors prepare to move forward with the charges against Jackson-Small.
Smith’s legacy includes her contribution to The Lion King production during her year-long run as Young Nala. Her performance in the iconic role remains a testament to her abilities as a young performer and the potential she demonstrated on stage.
