Maine father charged with murder in 12-week-old infant’s death

A Maine man is charged with murder after his 12-week-old baby was found unresponsive and later died, police announced. 

First responders received a call about an unresponsive infant in Orrington on Jan. 16, Maine State Police wrote in a press release. The 12-week-old, whom police identified as Lyla Samuels, was brought to Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor, State Police wrote. 

“Due to the facts and circumstances of the case the Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit- North was called in to investigate,” the agency said.

Stemming from their investigation, State Police arrested Shawn Samuels of Orrington, the infant’s father, on Jan. 17. Samuels, 24, was charged with domestic violence elevated aggravated assault and two counts of violation of bail. 

The baby died on Jan. 18, the agency said. While the cause of death was still pending as of Tuesday, State Police said, the office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled the manner of death a homicide.

After the autopsy, State Police detectives arrested Samuels at Penobscot County Jail, charging him with murder. He is still in custody as he awaits an initial court appearance on Wednesday, Jan. 21, the agency said.

Attorney information for the 24-year-old was not immediately available Tuesday evening.

“This is an isolated incident with no ongoing public safety concerns,” State Police wrote. 

Police asked anyone with information about the case to call 207-973-3700 ext. 9 and ask to speak with Det. Dana Austin or submit information to the Major Crimes Unit – North via their on-line tip portal.