Story perspectives

Mother Indicted for Murder; Child Welfare Agency Faces Backlash

12/25/2025

Center

Zyhirah Hall Indicted

Zyhirah Hall has been indicted for murdering her 6-year-old daughter Ne'Miya Duncan in Newark on March 10, 2025.
The state child welfare agency received multiple abuse reports before Ne'Miya Duncan's death but did not act.
Commissioner Christine Norbut Beyer acknowledged agency failures and announced disciplinary actions against eight employees.
The Newark South office was closed.
Critics argue that the closure advances Beyer’s agenda and worsens workloads in other offices.

Right

Imani Smith Stabbed

Imani Smith, a former Broadway child star known for her role in The Lion King, was fatally stabbed in New Jersey by her boyfriend Jordan D Jackson Small.
Jordan D Jackson Small, 35, faces murder charges and is held in custody.
Basilisa Negron, 47, was shot dead in her Harlem apartment after being stalked by her ex-boyfriend.
Authorities continue the investigation, and Negron’s ex-boyfriend is named a person of interest.

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Zyhirah Hall Indicted

Zyhirah Hall has been indicted for murdering her 6-year-old daughter Ne'Miya Duncan in Newark on March 10, 2025.
The state child welfare agency received multiple abuse reports before Ne'Miya Duncan's death but did not act.
Commissioner Christine Norbut Beyer acknowledged agency failures and announced disciplinary actions against eight employees.
The Newark South office was closed.
Critics argue that the closure advances Beyer’s agenda and worsens workloads in other offices.

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