Morgan Freeman pays tribute to stabbed granddaughter

E'Dina was the granddaughter of Freeman's first wife Jeanette Adair Bradshaw (AAP)

Morgan Freeman has paid tribute to his step-granddaughter E'Dena Hines, who was stabbed to death on Sunday (US time).

The 33-year-old actress was found with multiple stab wounds to her torso outside her home in New York at around 3am. She was rushed to hospital but was pronounced dead soon after, and Freeman was quick to release a statement lamenting his family's loss.

"The world will never know her artistry and talent, and how much she had to offer," he said according to People magazine. "Her friends and family were fortunate enough to have known what she meant as a person. Her star will continue to shine bright in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. May she rest in peace."

E'Dina was the granddaughter of Freeman's first wife Jeanette Adair Bradshaw. She was found unresponsive in the street outside her home on the 400 block of W. 162nd Street.

The New York Post reported that her ex-boyfriend was standing nearby screaming and a knife was recovered at the scene.

According to her website, she studied acting at New York University's prestigious Graduate Acting Program. She was also active in the local acting community in the city. Cover Showbiz

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