Lexington, September 1, 2025
News Summary
Laken Snelling, a 21-year-old University of Kentucky student, has been arrested in connection with the death of an infant found near downtown Lexington. She faces multiple charges, including concealing the birth of her child and tampering with physical evidence. The infant was discovered unresponsive on August 27, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Lexington Police Department’s special victims section. An autopsy has been completed, but results are pending. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact them.
Lexington
A 21-year-old woman named Laken Snelling has been arrested in connection with the death of an infant found near downtown Lexington. Authorities have charged Snelling with concealing the birth of her child, abuse of a corpse, and tampering with physical evidence.
The incident began on August 27, when officers from the Lexington Police Department were dispatched to the 400 block of Park Avenue shortly after 10:30 a.m. Upon arrival, they found an unresponsive infant who was pronounced dead at the scene. This situation led to the ongoing investigation by the special victims section of the department.
On August 29, an autopsy was performed by the Fayette County Coroner’s Office to determine the cause of death. As of now, that information has not been released to the public.
Laken Snelling is currently being held at the Fayette County Detention Center following her arrest on Wednesday. She is a senior at the University of Kentucky, pursuing a degree in interdisciplinary disability studies and is a member of the Kentucky Stunt Team. University spokesperson Jay Blanton confirmed Snelling’s student status but refrained from commenting further on her arrest.
The police have urged anyone with additional information regarding this case to reach out by contacting them at 859-258-3600. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Bluegrass Crime Stoppers by calling 859-253-2020 or through their online portal.
Background Context
This tragic event underscores the complexities surrounding issues of mental health, social support, and the availability of resources for new or prospective parents. Cases involving the concealment of birth and related charges are often steeped in deeper societal issues, including economic hardship and insufficient support systems for at-risk individuals.
The Lexington community is left grappling with this heartbreaking incident, as investigations continue and more details emerge.
FAQ
What charges have been filed against Laken Snelling?
Laken Snelling faces charges of concealing the birth of her child, abuse of a corpse, and tampering with physical evidence.
When was the infant found?
The infant was discovered on August 27 around 10:30 a.m. near downtown Lexington.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The special victims section of the Lexington Police Department is continuing the investigation into the incident.
Where is Laken Snelling currently being held?
She is currently detained at the Fayette County Detention Center.
How can individuals provide information regarding the case?
Individuals can contact the Lexington Police Department at 859-258-3600, or they can provide anonymous tips to Bluegrass Crime Stoppers at 859-253-2020 or through their online platform.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrestee | Laken Snelling, 21 |
| Charges | Concealing birth, abuse of a corpse, tampering with evidence |
| Incident Discovery | August 27; infant found unresponsive |
| Autopsy Date | August 29 |
| University Affiliation | Senior at the University of Kentucky |
| Current Status | Held at Fayette County Detention Center |
| Police Contact | 859-258-3600 |
| Anonymous Tip Line | Bluegrass Crime Stoppers, 859-253-2020 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Arrest in Infant’s Death
- Wikipedia: Infanticide
- WKYT: Car Overturns in Lexington Crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Legal System
- LEX18: Man in Critical Condition After Water Rescue
- Google Search: Laken Snelling Case
- Fox 56 News: Man Falls into Lexington Pond
- Google News: Lexington Crime
- WKYT: Body Found Near FCPS Bus Garage
- Google Scholar: Concealment of Birth
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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