A North Carolina mother has been charged with murder after the remains of her 4-year-old daughter were found behind a home in north Charlotte.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said they had received reports that the girl had not been seen in months — including some tips that indicated foul play, Fox 46 reported.

Investigators went to the home and found remains they believe belong to the little girl, but they are waiting for confirmation before releasing her identity.

Meanwhile, police arrested 31-year-old Malikah Diane Bennett on charges of child abuse, inflicting physical injury, concealing a death, and first degree murder, WSOC reported. Investigators have not yet revealed how or when the child died.

“It’s really a bad situation,” said Lashonda Alexander, a teacher who knows the family.

Bennett is being held in the Mecklenburg County jail without bond, according to court records, and is due in court on Monday.

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[Featured image: Malikah Diane Bennett/Mecklenburg County Jail]