Edena Hines, 33, suffered multiple stab wounds as she was butchered on a Manhattan sidewalk outside her home in New York in the US.
She was rushed to hospital in Harlem where she later died.
A witness to the crime claimed to have heard E'Dena's ex-boyfriend screaming at her.
Neighbour George Hudacko added they believed he was trying to perform an exorcism on her in the middle of the street.
He said E'Dena's killer was screaming: "Get out, devils! I cast you out, devils! In the name of Jesus Christ, I cast you out!"
The 65-year-old witness watched the attack from his window, then called 911 after hearing the victim's screams.
He added: "The girl was making a lot of noise, screaming.
"I saw something sparkly going up and down – I called 911, I was begging them to come."
In a statement, Freeman paid tribute to her, saying: “The world will never know her artistry in talent, and how much she had to offer.
"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'Dena was a budding actress and recently returned to New York from Memphis, where she taught underprivileged youngsters.
The New York Police Department confirmed a 30-year-old man gone into custody after being found at the scene.
In 2012, 78-year-old Morgan was forced to deny he was romantically involved with E'Dena, following claims they had been seeing each other for ten years.
Morgan said at the time: "The recent reports of any pending marriage or romantic relationship of me to anyone are defamatory fabrications."
E'Dena also added: "These stories about me and my grandfather are not only untrue, they are also hurtful to me and my family."
