Tragic Infant Death in Maine Leads to Murder Charge Against Father
A 24-year-old man from Maine has been arrested and formally charged with murder following the tragic death of his 12-week-old daughter, who succumbed to multiple injuries in hospital over the weekend. Shawn Samuels was taken into custody after his infant daughter, Lyla Samuels, was found unresponsive and visibly 'blue' at their family home, prompting an emergency response.
Emergency Response and Hospitalisation
The Penobscot Regional Communication Center received a distressing call at approximately 11:40 am on Friday, reporting an unresponsive three-month-old baby. First responders arrived swiftly and administered CPR to Lyla, successfully restoring her breathing before she was transported to Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center for urgent medical care. Despite these efforts, the infant passed away on Sunday, with her death officially ruled a homicide by state authorities.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Shawn Samuels was initially charged with domestic violence on Friday but saw his charges elevated to murder following the release of the Medical Examiner's report, which cited 'multiple injuries' as the cause of death. Samuels was virtually arraigned at the Penobscot County Judicial Center in Bangor, where he entered a not guilty plea. He is currently being held on a substantial bail set at $250,000, pending further legal proceedings. The cause of death remains tentative, awaiting final testing results.
Family Tributes and Community Support
Lyla's mother, Leah Collins, described her daughter as a 'gift from God, returned to Heaven much too soon.' In emotional statements to local media, Collins expressed that Lyla's smiles, grunts, giggles, and coos brought immense joy to all who knew her during her brief life. Family members shared heartfelt tributes on social media, remembering Lyla as 'the sweetest, smiliest, most beautiful little light' whose presence was deeply cherished.
A GoFundMe campaign established to support the grieving family has raised over $10,500, reflecting widespread community solidarity. The fundraiser highlighted the family's 'unimaginable grief and sorrow' at the sudden loss of their beloved 12-week-old daughter and granddaughter.
Context and Investigation Details
According to a family member who spoke to the Boston Globe, this tragic incident marked the first time Shawn Samuels had been left alone with his daughter. State police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Lyla's injuries and death, with authorities emphasising the ongoing nature of the case. The community remains in mourning, with friends and relatives urging support for the Collins family during this profoundly difficult time.
