Former University of Kentucky Cheerleader Indicted for Manslaughter in Newborn Son’s Death

Roommates Uncover Tragedy in Off-Campus Home (Image Credits: Nypost.com)

Lexington, Kentucky – A Fayette County grand jury indicted former University of Kentucky student Laken Snelling on first-degree manslaughter charges connected to her infant son’s death last summer.[1]

Roommates Uncover Tragedy in Off-Campus Home

Roommates of the 21-year-old Snelling discovered the grim scene on August 27, 2025, after hearing unusual noises from her bedroom earlier that morning. They found a blood-soaked towel and evidence suggesting childbirth before locating the newborn boy wrapped in a towel inside a black trash bag in her closet.[2] The infant was cold to the touch, prompting an immediate 911 call. Police arrived and confirmed the baby’s death at the Park Avenue residence.[3]

Snelling, a member of the university’s STUNT team, had concealed her pregnancy from those around her. She returned home shortly after the discovery and faced arrest on the spot. Authorities noted she had cleaned the area, showered, and even visited a McDonald’s that morning while skipping classes.[2]

Initial Charges Follow Swift Investigation

Investigators charged Snelling shortly after with abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant. She told police she gave birth around 4 a.m., believed the baby was not breathing after it fell to the floor, and passed out on top of it for about 30 minutes.[1][3] Upon waking, she wrapped the child in a towel, placed it in the trash bag, and stored it in the closet before tidying up.[2]

Snelling appeared in court on September 2, 2025, pleaded not guilty, and posted a $100,000 bond. She waived her preliminary hearing the following month, sending the case to a grand jury. Meanwhile, she withdrew from the University of Kentucky and remained on house arrest at her parents’ home in Tennessee.[4]

Autopsy Findings Prompt Homicide Charges

The Kentucky Medical Examiner’s Office later determined the full-term infant was born alive, with the cause of death listed as asphyxia by undetermined means. This revelation shifted the investigation toward potential criminal liability.[1][2] Court records revealed Snelling admitted to medical staff that the baby showed fetal movement and whimpered after birth.[2]

Fayette Commonwealth’s Attorney Kimberly Baird explained that the grand jury reviewed homicide levels before settling on first-degree manslaughter. Snelling now faces up to 20 years on that count, plus additional time on the original charges if convicted.[2]

Case Timeline and Charges Overview

• First-degree manslaughter
• Abuse of a corpse
• Tampering with physical evidence
• Concealing the birth of an infant

Questions Linger as Case Advances

The indictment marks a significant escalation after months of scrutiny over the autopsy’s inconclusive early findings. Investigators also collected DNA from an ex-boyfriend, though paternity details remain unclear. Snelling’s actions post-birth, including deleted selfies from labor, came under review as evidence of concealment.[2]

This case underscores the complexities of concealed pregnancies and sudden infant deaths on college campuses. As proceedings continue, the focus remains on determining accountability amid undetermined circumstances. What are your thoughts on the charges and investigation? Share in the comments below.