A Broadway child star was fatally stabbed. Imani Dia Smith, 26, was killed at her New Jersey home on Sunday when her body was discovered there.
The actress, who had previously appeared in The Lion King on Broadway, was found dead at home with stab wounds at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital.
A man was detained and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the crime, according to a press release from the Middlesex Country Sheriff’s Office. According to the press release, Smith knew the man Jordan Jackson-Small.
Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, of Edison was the subject of an initial investigation led by Detective Kevin Kirsh of the Edison Police Department and Detective Olivia Ankudowicz of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, according to the county sheriff’s office. Additionally, Jackson-Small and Smith already knew each other prior to the incident, making it not a random act of violence.
Jackson-Small was detained without incident and is facing charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon. After the results of his Pre-Trial detention hearing, Jackson-Small is awaiting release from custody at Middlesex County Adult Correctional Centre.
They added that anyone with information should call the Edison Police Department or the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office because this was an ongoing investigation.
Finally, they emphasized that Jackson-Small’s accusations are still “all allegations” as of right now. Jackson-Small is presumed innocent until proven guilty, just like all criminal defendants, and the charges against him are “they finished.
Smith played Young Nala in The Lion King from 2011 to 2012 when she passed away. A three-year-old son also survives her. Her aunt started a GoFundMe account to raise money to pay for her son’s funeral expenses after her death. The page has so far raised over $48, 000 out of its $55, 000 goal.
Her aunt claimed that Jackson-Small was Smith’s boyfriend in the GoFundMe description. Imani had her entire life ahead of her, according to Kira Helper, Smith’s aunt. She had a lot of energy, love, and incredible talent. She most famously performed Young Nala on Broadway in Disney’s Lion King, a role that reflected the joy, creativity, and light she gave to the world.
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The following resources are available if you need assistance with your mental health:
- Every day of the year, Samaritans (116 123 in the UK and Ireland) offers a 24-hour service. You can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org if you want to record your feelings or are concerned about being overheard on the phone.
- In the UK, Childline (0800 1111) operates a helpline for young people. Calls are free, and your phone bill won’t include the number.
- A 501(C)(3) non-profit organization that assists teenagers and young adults who are suicidal.
- Anyone who is dealing with a mental health issue can get support and advice from Mind (0300 123 3393), an organization with an English base that offers assistance. They launch campaigns to improve services, spread awareness, and foster understanding.
- Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, moody, or considering suicide.
- Bullying UK is a website for both young people and adults who are bullied.
- If U Care Share is a charity that promotes suicide prevention and treatment. IUCS to 85258 for free confidential text support.
- In the North East, James’ Place offers free, life-saving care for suicidal men and those who identify as men. Men can refer to themselves, others, including those in the community and health services, or by a friend or family.
Source: Mirror
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