Shawn Samuels Arrested After 12-Week-Old Daughter Lyla Samuels Dies Following First Solo Play Date With Father

A Maine father has been arrested and charged with murder following the death of his 12-week-old daughter, who was found unresponsive during what was supposed to be his first time caring for the infant alone.

Shawn Samuels, 24, of Orrington, Maine, is accused in the homicide death of his daughter, Lyla Samuels, after authorities say the baby suffered multiple traumatic injuries while in his care.

Emergency responders were dispatched on January 16 after a 911 call reported an unresponsive infant at a residence in Orrington. Lyla was rushed to Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor, where first responders performed CPR. The baby briefly regained breathing before her condition deteriorated.

Investigators later learned that Samuels had been alone with Lyla for the first time when the incident occurred.

On January 17, Shawn Samuels was arrested on charges of domestic violence elevated aggravated assault and two counts of violating bail conditions. The following day, January 18, Lyla died from her injuries. Authorities ruled her death a homicide.

Lyla Samuels.

After an autopsy on January 19, Samuels was formally charged with murder and booked into the Penobscot County Jail.

The autopsy revealed disturbing findings. Lyla had four broken ribs, retinal hemorrhages, and severe brain swelling. The chief medical examiner determined the brain injuries were caused by acceleration-deceleration trauma, an injury pattern that would not occur in a healthy infant without external force.

Samuels appeared in court on January 21, where he entered a not guilty plea. His bail was set at $250,000, and his next court appearance is scheduled for February 13.

Lyla’s mother, Leah Collins, remembered her daughter as a joyful and cherished baby, describing her as “a gift from God, returned to Heaven much too soon.”

“She is missed beyond what words could ever express,” Collins said. “She will forever stay in our hearts as the precious, perfect baby girl that she is.”

Family members also shared emotional tributes, remembering Lyla for her smiles, warmth, and the love she brought into their lives during her short time.

A GoFundMe created to support Collins and her family has raised more than $10,000, with funds intended to help cover funeral expenses, time away from work, and other costs as the family grieves.

“This family is loved by so many,” wrote family friend Jeremy Boutot. “We refuse to let them suffer alone or allow darkness to win.”

The case remains ongoing.

Shawn Samuels.