In a tragic turn of events, Imani Dia Smith, a former child star of Broadway, was discovered fatally stabbed in her New Jersey residence over the weekend. The incident has left the community and her fans in shock.

According to Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, authorities responded to a distress call on Sunday morning at a home in Edison. Upon arrival, they found Smith suffering from stab wounds. She was immediately transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where, regrettably, she succumbed to her injuries.

Smith, who had once captivated audiences as Young Nala in Broadway’s “The Lion King” during 2011 and 2012, was just 25 years old. She leaves behind a 3-year-old son, who was reportedly present at the home during the incident, as reported by Playbill.

In connection with this heartbreaking event, 35-year-old Jordan D. Jackson-Small has been taken into custody. He faces several charges, including murder, endangering the welfare of a child, and weapon possession for illegal purposes.

While officials have confirmed that Smith and Jackson-Small were acquainted before the incident, they have not elaborated on the nature of their relationship. However, a GoFundMe campaign organized by Smith’s aunt describes Jackson-Small as her boyfriend, shedding light on the personal aspect of this devastating case.