Location found of missing Kentucky baby, parents arrested

OHIO COUNTY, Ky. — Following the death of an 8-month-old baby in Ohio County, Tesla Tucker, Cage Rudd and Ricky Smith — the girl's parents and grandfather — have all been brought to justice in court on June 17.

Tucker and Rudd, an Ohio County couple, face a number of charges related to the death of their 8-month-old daughter, Miya Rudd.

“This is actually one of those cases that highlights the effects that drugs and addiction can have on families and communities,” said Kentucky State Trooper Corey King.

King assisted in the investigation to find Miya, who had not been seen since late April.

Investigators were able to find Tucker and Rudd at a motel outside Owensboro, King said.

“And that's ultimately what started this search of 'Where's baby Miya?'” King said.

This question has been answered. Investigators found Miya on June 14 in their dilapidated house.

“That baby had passed away,” King said. “I don't know how long, but it seemed like a long time.”

Kentucky State Police detectives said when they found 8-month-old Miya's body, it was hidden in a “concealed” manner.

King added that Child Protective Services removed the children from the home prior to this investigation. This was due to squalls inside the house and drug activity.

“There's a lot of residue coming from inside that house, from meth to fentanyl,” King said.

For neighbors like Charles Oelze, who is also a parent, it's terrifying for him and his family that a helpless baby died just blocks from their home.

“My son is actually the same age as Miya, and I couldn't believe something like this could happen later,” Oelze said.

King said the case centered on drug abuse.

“If you are addicted, seek help, because it will control you,” he said. “Addiction will always take over. It will impact everyone in your life.

Eight people, including grandparents, were arrested on multiple charges in the case. An autopsy is underway in Louisville.