Maryland daycare provider indicted for murder in death of baby girl

A Maryland daycare provider was indicted for murder for the death of a baby girl in her care, Prince George's County police said.

Beatrice Manning, 43, of Oxon Hill was arrested in connection with the death of nine-month-old Savannah Wright back in December.

"There is no crime worse than killing a defenseless child," Prince George's County State's Attorney Angela Alsobrooks said. "In addition to holding Ms. Manning responsible for her actions, it is our hope that the county's Child Care Safety Campaign will continue to provide parents with the information and resources they need to ensure that their children are being cared for by licensed providers so we can avoid these terrible circumstances going forward."

Police said Wright's mother dropped her off at Manning's home on the morning of Dec. 2, 2015. Manning was running an unlicensed daycare called "Little Giggles.

The investigation shows that about four hours later, Manning called 911, saying Savannah was lethargic and had become unresponsive. The baby was rushed to Children's National Medical Center, where she was placed on life support. Doctors told detectives that Wright was suffering from a brain injury. Savannah died on December 4.

Wright's death was ruled a homicide caused by blunt force injury to the head, police said.

Police say autopsy results and the investigation reveal that Wright's injuries happened while she was in Manning's care.

Manning's first court date is pending and she remains free on a $250,000 bond. She has been indicted on one count of murder and one count of first degree child abuse.