ORRINGTON MAINE, a father has been arrested and charged in connection with the death of his 12-week-old daughter after authorities say the infant suffered fatal injuries while alone with him during what was supposed to be their first solo visit together.
Shawn Samuels, 24, of Orrington, has been charged with murder in the death of his daughter, Lyla Samuels, who was found unresponsive and later died from her injuries. Police said the incident occurred on Friday when emergency responders were called to reports of an unresponsive three-month-old infant.
According to the Penobscot Regional Communications Center, a 911 call was received at approximately 11:40 a.m. Friday. The infant was rushed to the hospital in critical condition and died two days later.
Maine State Police said Lyla Samuels died Sunday, and her death was ruled a homicide. Authorities stated that an autopsy revealed the infant suffered multiple injuries.
An autopsy report reviewed by the Bangor Daily News said Lyla had four broken ribs, retinal hemorrhages, and brain swelling at the time of her death. Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Alice Briones determined the brain bleeding was consistent with an acceleration-deceleration injury and said such trauma would not occur in a healthy infant.
Samuels was initially charged with elevated aggravated assault and two counts of violating bail conditions following his arrest. Police said the charges were upgraded to murder over the weekend after Lyla succumbed to her injuries.
The infant’s mother, Leah Collins, told the Bangor Daily News that Lyla was a “gift from God” and said her daughter returned to heaven far too soon.
Family members shared tributes on social media, remembering Lyla as a joyful and loving child whose life ended too early.
A GoFundMe established to support Lyla’s family had raised more than $10,700 as of Sunday evening. The fundraiser described the family as facing an extremely difficult and painful time following the loss.
Court records indicate Samuels has a prior history of domestic violence. He has pleaded not guilty and remains held on $250,000 bail.
Samuels is scheduled to appear in court again on Feb. 13. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.
