MOREHEAD, Ky. (LEX 18) — Austin Smither is still processing the loss of Kayla and her daughter Kennedi three days after Rowan County deputies discovered them during a welfare check requested by one of Kayla's co-workers.

"I still don't believe it happened," Smither said.

Kayla's boyfriend, 44-year-old Joshua Cotrell, has been arrested and charged with their murders.

Smither described the close bond between mother and daughter.

"Kennedi was Kayla made over, she was just like her," Smither said.

Kennedi was a member of the 11U state champion 2024 softball team and Kayla was a fixture at her games.

"She was always at Kennedi's softball games and would text me, tell me how proud of her she was," Smither said.

Morehead Parks & Recreation was very proud of Kennedi's efforts on and off the

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