Lexington, KY – September 5, 2025 — A shocking case has rocked Kentucky after the ex-girlfriend of former Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman Darian Kinnard was arrested when police discovered the body of a newborn hidden inside a closet at her student residence near the University of Kentucky.
According to the Lexington Police Department, 21-year-old Laken Snelling has been charged with concealing the birth of an infant, tampering with physical evidence, and abuse of a corpse. The investigation began on August 27 when officers responded to a report of an unresponsive baby. On arrival, they discovered the infant wrapped in a towel and placed in a black trash bag inside a closet.
A preliminary autopsy ruled the cause of death as “currently undetermined,” with further microscopic testing still underway. Fayette County Coroner Gary Ginn stated: “We understand the concern and sensitivity surrounding the death of a child. This remains an ongoing, careful investigation to ensure all facts are considered.”
The case has drawn NFL attention because Snelling previously dated Darian Kinnard, the standout offensive lineman from Kentucky who was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Kinnard started 39 straight games for the Wildcats, earning Consensus All-American honors in 2021 before turning pro.
Kinnard spent two seasons with the Chiefs (2022–2023), where he collected two Super Bowl rings (LVII and LVIII) while primarily on the practice squad. He then joined the Philadelphia Eagles (2024), appearing in two regular season games, including one start. On August 24, 2025, the Eagles traded Kinnard to the Green Bay Packers, making him one of the rare players with three consecutive Super Bowl championships on his résumé.
As for Snelling, she was arrested on August 31 and initially booked into Fayette County Detention Center on a $100,000 bond. She later posted bond and was released to her parents’ home in Tennessee. Court documents show she has pleaded not guilty and is due back in court on September 26 for a preliminary hearing.
Investigators revealed that Snelling admitted to “concealing the birth” by cleaning up evidence and placing the items, along with the baby, inside the trash bag.
While the legal process plays out, both the University of Kentucky community and NFL fans are stunned to see Kinnard’s name indirectly tied to such a tragic case off the field.
