Police said 30-year-old Kiana Barker was arrested Thursday on murder and child abuse charges.
They say Barker initially told investigators she accidentally hit Viola Vanclief with a hammer while trying to free the girl, who had become trapped in a bed frame. But authorities say records show the child had several bruises. The girl died on March 4.
Barker is being held on $1.1 million bail.
Her boyfriend, 38-year-old James Julian is facing an accessory to murder charge. His bail is set at $1.6 million.