KNOXVILLE - Infant deaths are on the rise in East Tennessee due to what officials believe is caused by unsafe sleep practices.

It’s a heartbreaking reality and the Knox County Regional Forensic Center is seeing an increase in the number of babies dying from sleeping with a loved one or incorrectly in their cribs.

As it stands, infant sleep-related deaths jumped just over 71 percent from 2024 to 2025, the latest numbers available as the RFC puts together its annual report. Throughout the Forensics Center’s 23 partner counties, positional asphyxia (from overlay or smothering) accounted for 14 deaths two years ago and 24 last year.

Further, the state’s overall infant mortality rate is 16 percent higher than the national average, according to a new report published by the state’s health department that focuses on 2023 birth outcomes.

Although most of the infant deaths that year were tied to medical conditions, unsafe sleeping practices remained a significant factor in infant deaths. The reported noted that roughly four in five sleep-related deaths were “preventable.” The report noted that the ones not preventable were connected to pregnancies.

The problem isn’t isolated in East Tennessee or even the state, though. It’s a trend throughout the country. In fact, American Academy of Pediatrics is recommending that children sleep alone to avoid accidental suffocation or strangulation. The Knox County Health Department also has its own website that features a whole section dedicated to safe sleep with details and resources for families called Safe Sleep | Mighty Moments.

Additionally, medical experts stress that folks follow three simple rules – often dubbed the “A, B, C of Safe Sleep” – to save lives:

• A - Alone: Babies should sleep without pillows, blankets, stuffed animals or other people.
• B - Back: Babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep.
• C - Crib: Babies should sleep in a crib or bassinet on a firm, flat surface.

“These are tragedies that can be largely prevented through awareness and putting safe sleep recommendations into practice,” said Chris Thomas, director and chief administrative officers of the RFC. “By making the public aware, we hope to reduce the number of families who experience the unimaginable pain of losing a baby.”

In recent years, the Knox County Health Department and local partners made concerted efforts to promote safe sleep practices through awareness campaigns, education, and providing cribs to families in need. This paid off, and the number of infant deaths dropped.

Therefore, the RFC plans to work in conjunction with the KCHD’s social media channels each day this week to offer evidence-based guidelines and tips to ensure caregivers feel empowered to make safe sleep choices for their infants.
"Those long nights with a newborn baby can feel incredibly stressful, especially if they're sick or restless" said Knox County Health Department Health Planner Chelsea Gouty. "Even during those tough nights or naps, following safe sleep guidance will help ensure your baby is as safe as possible."