Broadway’s shimmering lights have been dimmed by tragedy as Imani Smith, known for lighting up the stage as young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King, was brutally killed in her Edison, New Jersey home, authorities revealed.

The shocking events unfolded on December 21, when police raced to a residence on a quiet street after receiving a 911 distress call just after 9 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered the 25-year-old performer suffering from multiple stab wounds. Despite being rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Smith could not be saved and was declared dead shortly after.

The crime sent shockwaves through both the local community and Broadway circles. No one was prepared for the bombshell that followed: Jordan D. Jackson Small, 35, Smith’s boyfriend, was cuffed and charged in connection to her killing, authorities confirmed. Small is now behind bars at Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center, facing a slew of gravely serious charges — including first-degree murder, weapon possession offenses, and endangering the welfare of a child.

According to a statement from Smith’s devastated aunt on a GoFundMe page, the pair had been romantically involved. The fundraiser paints a heart-wrenching portrait of Smith: ‘She brought joy, creativity, and light everywhere she went… Immaculately talented, loving, and full of life.’ In addition to paying for funeral and memorial arrangements, the fund is expected to help cover trauma counseling for her grieving family, cleaning costs for the home, legal expenses tied to the ongoing investigation, and support for Smith’s three-year-old son, as well as her dog.

Investigators have kept tight-lipped about a possible motive. Smith’s Broadway credits included a standout year as young Nala from September 2011 through September 2012, according to Playbill. Now, a son, parents, and siblings are left to mourn an unthinkable loss — with loved ones hoping the community’s support will ease just a fraction of their burden during this nightmare.