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Young Nala Actress Imani Smith Stabbed; Boyfriend Charged

12/28/2025

27 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Imani Smith Murdered

Imani Smith, known for Young Nala in The Lion King, was found dead from stab wounds in Edison, New Jersey, on December 21.
Her boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, was charged with first-degree murder; authorities say the attack was not random because the couple knew each other.
A GoFundMe page by her family has raised over $70,000 for funeral expenses and her 3-year-old son's care, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Summary

Imani Smith Stabbed

Imani Dia Smith, 26, was fatally stabbed in her Edison, New Jersey home on December 21.
Her boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, has been charged with first-degree murder and other offenses and is held without bail.
A GoFundMe campaign launched by Smith's aunt has raised over $68,000 to support the family.
Funeral arrangements have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.

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Imani Smith Murdered

Imani Smith, known for Young Nala in The Lion King, was found dead from stab wounds in Edison, New Jersey, on December 21.
Her boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, was charged with first-degree murder; authorities say the attack was not random because the couple knew each other.
A GoFundMe page by her family has raised over $70,000 for funeral expenses and her 3-year-old son's care, and the investigation remains ongoing.

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