Autopsy results have been disclosed after a University of Kentucky cheerleader allegedly hid a dead newborn in a trash bag.
Law enforcement was called to Snelling’s Lexington home on August 27 after reports of “a deceased infant being located inside of a closet.”
According to the arrest report, officers found the infant wrapped in a towel and placed inside a black trash bag.
The newborn was pronounced dead at around 10:30AM, the police report noted. After being read her Miranda rights, Snelling allegedly admitted that she had given birth and “concealed the birth by cleaning any evidence,” which included placing the infant and cleaning supplies into the trash bag.
The 21-year-old student, originally from White Pine, Tennessee, was charged with abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and concealing the birth of an infant.
She pled not guilty, posted a $100,000 bond on September 2, and was placed on house arrest. Snelling is due back in court on September 26.
According to Yahoo, newly released autopsy results have left more questions than answers.
The Fayette County Coroner’s Office reported that the infant’s cause of death is “currently undetermined.” The coroner’s report stated that “extensive microscopic analyses are essential to determine the cause and manner of death,” per Lex 18.
“I understand the community’s concern and sensitivity surrounding the death of a child. This death affects many lives in our neighboring state of Tennessee and as well as those in the commonwealth,” the report stated. “We are currently conducting a thorough and methodical death investigation to ensure all facts are carefully considered.”
Snelling had been a member of the University of Kentucky’s competitive cheer stunt team for the past three seasons.
“We can confirm that she has been a member of the STUNT team for the last three seasons,” the university said in a statement. “All other questions should be directed to the Lexington Police.”
The disturbing case has drawn attention not just because of the circumstances, but also because of Snelling’s social media activity.
A TikTok video she posted months earlier resurfaced, in which she listed “having a baby” as one of her life goals, alongside getting married and owning a home.
The discovery has sparked wider discussion, with many online pointing to Kentucky’s abortion laws, which took effect in 2022 and allow abortion only if the pregnant person’s life is at substantial risk or to prevent serious, permanent harm to vital organs. The ban does not include exceptions for rape or incest.
Others highlighted that Kentucky offers designated places where unwanted newborns can be safely surrendered.
The Lexington Police Department’s Special Victims Section is continuing its investigation.