University of Kentucky Athlete Laken Snelling at Centre of Tragic Infant Death Investigation

Breaking Development in University Case

Laken Snelling, a 21-year-old University of Kentucky student, has withdrawn from the institution following her arrest on Sunday. She faces multiple charges including abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant.

Investigation Details

The case began when Lexington Police were called to a residence on Park Avenue regarding an unresponsive infant. Upon investigation, authorities discovered a baby’s body inside a closet, wrapped in a towel and placed inside a black trash bag.

According to officials, the cause of death for the infant remains unknown at this time. The Fayette County Coroner’s Office has stated that preliminary autopsy results are ‘inconclusive’ and additional testing is required.

Athletic Background

Snelling, originally from White Pine, Tennessee, has been a member of the university’s STUNT team for the past three seasons. STUNT is described as one of the fastest-growing female sports in the United States, featuring head-to-head competition between teams focusing on the technical and athletic aspects of cheerleading.

Legal Proceedings

Snelling has entered a not guilty plea to the charges. She has been released on a $100,000 bond and placed under house arrest at her parents’ home in Jefferson City, Tennessee, approximately 200 miles from where she was arrested in Kentucky.

The case has garnered significant community attention, with Fayette County Coroner Gary W. Ginn stating, ‘I understand the community’s concern and sensitivity surrounding the death of a child. This death affects many lives in our neighboring state of Tennessee, as well as those in the Commonwealth.’ He added that they are conducting a thorough and methodical death investigation to ensure all facts are carefully considered.