LEXINGTON, Ky. — Laken Snelling, a 21-year-old University of Kentucky cheerleader, is facing multiple charges after authorities discovered her newborn baby dead inside a trash bag hidden in the closet of her off-campus apartment. The case has shocked the campus community and drawn national attention for its disturbing details.

Discovery and Arrest

Police were called to Snelling’s Lexington residence on August 31 following a report of an unresponsive infant. According to investigators, the baby boy was wrapped in a towel, placed in a garbage bag, and concealed in a closet. The Fayette County Coroner’s Office later confirmed the infant’s death, though an autopsy determined the exact cause to be inconclusive.

Snelling was taken into custody and charged with abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant. She made her first court appearance on September 3, where she entered a not guilty plea.

Social Media Trail

In the months before her arrest, Snelling frequently shared glimpses of her personal life on social media. Posts featured her boyfriend, former college basketball player Connor Jordan, sparking speculation about whether he was connected to the pregnancy. Authorities have not confirmed his involvement, and Jordan has since deactivated his online accounts.

Perhaps most unsettling, one of Snelling’s final TikTok posts in June listed her future goals through emojis: a mother holding a baby, a wedding ring, a house, and cash. The video has since resurfaced as part of the public’s attempt to understand the tragedy.

Community Reaction

The case has stirred deep concern among students, faculty, and parents. “I understand the community’s concern and sensitivity surrounding the death of a child,” Fayette County Coroner Gary Ginn said in a statement. “We are conducting a thorough and methodical death investigation to ensure all facts are carefully considered.”

Many within the University of Kentucky community have expressed shock, describing Snelling as an active and spirited member of the cheerleading team. “You never expect something like this to happen so close to home,” one student told local media.

Legal Proceedings

Snelling is currently free on a $100,000 bond and has been ordered to live with her parents while awaiting trial. If convicted, she could face significant prison time. Prosecutors have not indicated whether additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.

For now, the death of the infant remains under review, with investigators awaiting further evidence. The case underscores broader questions about crisis pregnancies, mental health support, and the pressures faced by young adults balancing academics, athletics, and personal struggles.