A tragic case involving a former college student in Kentucky has taken a new turn after prosecutors secured a grand jury indictment. Authorities say the newborn baby discovered in a bedroom closet had been born alive and later died from lack of oxygen, leading investigators to pursue more serious charges.
Former University of Kentucky Student Indicted in Newborn Death Case
A grand jury in Fayette County, Kentucky, has indicted Laken Snelling, a former student at the University of Kentucky, in connection with the death of her newborn baby.
Snelling now faces a first-degree manslaughter charge after investigators concluded the infant had been born alive.
In addition to manslaughter, she was previously charged with:
- Abuse of a corpse
- Tampering with physical evidence
- Concealing the death of an infant (misdemeanor)
Authorities say a judge has now issued an arrest warrant following the grand jury indictment.
Medical Examiner Determined Baby Was Born Alive
According to the Lexington Police Department, the case changed significantly after the medical examiner completed an autopsy.
Officials determined that the baby:
- Was born alive
- Later died from asphyxia, meaning a lack of oxygen
This finding led prosecutors to pursue the more serious manslaughter charge.
Newborn Found in Closet Wrapped in Trash Bag
The case first came to light on August 27, 2025, when Snelling’s roommates made a disturbing discovery.
Concerned roommates reportedly contacted police after noticing:
- Blood inside Snelling’s bedroom
- Unusual sounds coming from her room
When officers investigated, they discovered the newborn’s body wrapped in a towel and placed inside a trash bag.
The bag had been hidden inside a closet in the bedroom.
Four days later, on August 31, 2025, authorities arrested Snelling in connection with the case.
Police Say Snelling Admitted Giving Birth
According to an affidavit obtained by investigators, Snelling told police that she gave birth inside her bedroom.
She reportedly said the baby fell onto the floor during the birth.
Authorities say she later admitted to cleaning up the scene and disposing of evidence.
Investigators allege that she placed various items into a trash bag, including:
- Towels
- Blood-soaked materials
- The newborn infant wrapped in a towel
The bag was then placed inside the closet.
House Arrest in Tennessee
Following her arrest, Snelling was released under strict conditions.
Reports indicate she has been living under house arrest at her father’s home in Tennessee since September 2025.
However, the recent grand jury indictment means authorities have now issued a warrant for her arrest in connection with the manslaughter charge.
Officials have not yet confirmed when she will be taken back into custody.
Legal Proceedings Moving Forward
The case will now move forward through the court system in Fayette County, Kentucky.
If convicted of first-degree manslaughter, Snelling could face significant prison time.
Court records have not yet confirmed the exact date for the next hearing.
Authorities have also not released additional details about the investigation.
