Preliminary autopsy results on a newborn found dead in a University of Kentucky student’s closet are inconclusive.
The Fayette County Coroner, Gary Ginn, has verified that the infant discovered in the closet of 21-year-old Laken Snelling in Lexington last week was a male child, according to a report by WKYT.
“I understand the community’s concern and sensitivity regarding the death of this child,” remarked Ginn. “We are performing a comprehensive and detailed death investigation to make sure all aspects are meticulously examined.”
According to CrimeOnline, Snelling faces charges for abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant. Reports suggest she confessed to giving birth, cleaning the area, and placing both the baby and cleaning items in the closet.
The baby was found wrapped in a towel inside a black trash bag. It’s not clear who called police to the scene.
Snelling, involved in the university’s STUNT team — a competitive sport that combines elements from cheerleading and gymnastics — was taken into custody on Sunday and secured her release on a $100,000 bond the following Monday. She was present in court on Tuesday and entered a plea of not guilty to all the allegations.
According to WBIR, Snelling was given home arrest at her parents’ home in Jefferson County, Tennessee. She is not required to wear a GPS monitor.
As a senior at the University of Kentucky, Snelling is majoring in interdisciplinary disability studies and has a past in beauty pageants in Tennessee, recognized as Jefferson County’s Fairest of the Fair in 2023. Her social media profiles show ongoing involvement with pageants in Jefferson County.
Snelling is due back in court on September 26.
