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A preliminary autopsy for a dead infant allegedly hidden in a closet by University of Kentucky student and cheerleader Laken Snelling, who faces multiple charges, has found the cause and manner of death to be “inconclusive.”
A report released by the Fayette County Coroner’s Office and obtained by Oxygen stated: “Preliminary autopsy has been completed; the findings are inclusive.”
“Extensive microscopic analyses are essential to determine the cause and manner of death,” the report added.
The report stated that the infant was male and listed the date of death as August 27.
“I understand the community’s concern and sensitivity surrounding the death of a child,” Coroner Gary Ginn said in the report. “We are currently conducting a thorough and methodical death investigation to ensure all facts are carefully considered. This death investigation remains open pending the results of these studies.”
The report added that no additional information will be released at this time.
What is Laken Snelling charged with?
Snelling, 21, and the baby’s mother, according to the Lexington Police Department, was charged with abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant.
She was taken into custody on Sunday, August 31 after police were sent to a university-area home on Park Ave. for an unresponsive infant on August 27 around 10:30 a.m, the Lexington Police Department said in a statement.
Officers at the scene found the infant “wrapped in a towel inside of a black trash bag,” according to a police citation obtained by WLWT.
Who is Laken Snelling?
A University of Kentucky spokesperson confirmed to NBC News that Snelling is a senior at the school, where she’s a member of the University of Kentucky’s cheerleading stunt team.
She’s originally from White Pine, Tennessee, according to a University of Kentucky team roster, and she attended Jefferson County High School.
Snelling was held at the Fayette County Detention Center, but LEX18, citing a court document, reported that after posting a $100,000 bond, she’s now on “home incarceration with no ankle monitor” and is “to live with parents.”
Anyone with info on the case is asked to call Lexington Police at (859) 258-3600. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Bluegrass Crime Stoppers by calling (859) 253-2020 or by visiting www.bluegrasscrimestoppers.com.
