Kentucky Crime
Decomposed Remains of Infant Found in Kentucky Likely to be Missing 8-Month-Old Girl
The remains have been transported to the Kentucky Medical Examiner's Office in Louisville for an autopsy
OHIO COUNTY, Ky. — In a tragic development, Kentucky State Police have discovered the decomposed remains of an infant believed to be 8-month-old Miya Rudd, who has been missing since late April. The discovery was made on Friday afternoon during a search of the family residence in Ohio County, Kentucky.
The remains were found in a concealed location within the cluttered home of Miya's parents, Tesla Tucker, 29, and Cage Rudd, 30. The body was discovered around 1:15 p.m. and was in a state of decomposition, according to Trooper Corey King. The remains have been transported to the Kentucky Medical Examiner's Office in Louisville for an autopsy to confirm the identity and determine the cause of death.
The search for Miya began over a week ago when relatives reported that they had not seen her since late April. Kentucky State Police initially visited the home for a warrant search and welfare check, where they found Miya's parents but not the infant. Both parents were subsequently arrested on multiple charges, including drug-related offenses, child abuse, and abandonment of a minor.
The investigation has since expanded, leading to the arrest of six other individuals connected to the family, including both sets of Miya's grandparents. The arrests were primarily related to drug offenses. Drugs, including pills containing fentanyl, were found at a Motel 6 where Miya's parents were located. The investigation also revealed that Miya's umbilical cord had tested positive for methamphetamine shortly after her birth.
Miya's maternal grandparents, Taletha and David Tucker, who had been caring for her three siblings, were arrested on Wednesday based on undisclosed warrants. The siblings were removed from their care by child welfare authorities. Miya's paternal grandparents, Billie J. Smith, 49, and Ricky J. Smith, 56, were also arrested earlier this month. Another individual, Timothy L. Roach, was arrested at Billie Smith's residence on drug charges.
The search for Miya involved extensive efforts, including the use of cadaver dogs, sonar equipment, and forensic examiners. Investigators searched various locations, including a church, cemetery, and wooded areas near the family's home. Despite these efforts, the family provided little cooperation, which frustrated law enforcement officials.
Trooper Corey King expressed the somber reality of the situation, stating, "This isn't the outcome we had hoped for, but it was an expected development in the investigation." He also highlighted the lack of assistance from Miya's family, who he believed should have been the most concerned for her well-being.
The discovery of the remains has transitioned the search into a criminal investigation. Preliminary findings from the medical examiner, including potential identification, are expected to be available soon. The investigation continues to uncover the circumstances surrounding Miya's disappearance and death.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of multiple family members in drug-related activities and the tragic end to the search for the missing infant. The community remains in shock as they await further details from the ongoing investigation.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are determined to uncover the truth and bring justice for Miya Rudd. The tragic discovery serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by children in environments plagued by substance abuse and neglect. The community and law enforcement officials alike hope for a resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of Miya's surviving siblings and holds those responsible accountable for their actions.