Cause of Death Undetermined for Baby Found in Kentucky Student’s Closet

The cause of death for a newborn baby boy found hidden inside a closet at the University of Kentucky student Laken Snelling’s home remains inconclusive following a preliminary autopsy, with extensive microscopic analyses still pending. Snelling, a 21-year-old former cheerleader, was arrested and charged with abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant after authorities discovered the infant wrapped in a towel inside a black trash bag. She has pleaded not guilty, was released on a $100,000 bond, and is under home incarceration at her parents' residence in Tennessee, with a preliminary court hearing scheduled for September 26. The Fayette County Coroner’s Office and Lexington Police continue to investigate the case, urging anyone with information to come forward. The tragic case has deeply affected both the University of Kentucky community and neighboring Tennessee, highlighting the sensitivity and complexity surrounding the infant’s death. Officials emphasize that a thorough and methodical investigation is underway to carefully consider all facts before reaching final conclusions.