Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary have formally charged a 27-year-old woman with the murder of a one-year-old girl in a deeply distressing case that has shocked the local community. The infant, Jayla-Jean Mclaren, who was described by her grieving family as their 'princess', tragically passed away in hospital during August 2025 after sustaining serious injuries.
Charges Laid Following Infant's Death
Samara Jay Glover, of Dairy Crest Drive in Newport, Isle of Wight, now faces charges of murder and causing or allowing the death of a child. The charges come after a thorough police investigation into the circumstances surrounding Jayla-Jean's untimely death. According to official statements from Hampshire Police, the one-year-old was rushed to hospital on 1st August 2025 with critical injuries and succumbed to those injuries just two days later on 3rd August.
Ongoing Police Investigation
The 27-year-old woman remains in police custody as the legal process begins. In a related development, a 31-year-old man, also from Newport, was previously arrested on suspicion of multiple serious offences including murder, causing or allowing the death of a child, and causing assault, ill treatment, neglect or abandonment of a child or young person to cause unnecessary suffering or injury. This individual has since been released on conditional bail, with his bail conditions set to remain in place until 27th April 2026.
Detective Chief Inspector Gemma Hunter, who is leading the investigation, issued a statement urging the public to refrain from speculation. 'We understand that cases such as this are incredibly concerning and upsetting,' DCI Hunter stated. 'However, we kindly ask that you do not speculate on this case, as it could potentially impact any future court proceedings. We will provide further updates on this investigation when appropriate.'
Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
In a previously released statement through police channels, Jayla-Jean's devastated family paid emotional tribute to their lost child. 'Mummy, daddy, and nanny will always love you. Fly high princess,' the statement read, capturing the profound grief of those closest to the one-year-old. The case continues to develop as legal preparations advance, with authorities emphasising the importance of allowing the judicial process to proceed without external interference that might compromise future court hearings.
