A mother and her teenage daughter have been charged in the alleged murder of the latter’s 71-year-old grandmother in Maryland, police said.
Candace Craig, 44, was charged with first-degree and second-degree murder, while her 19-year-old daughter, Salia Hardy, was charged with being an accessory after the fact, Prince George’s County police said in a news release on Saturday.
According to preliminary information, Margaret Craig, of Landover, is listed as the fatality. Candace Craig is her daughter and Hardy, her granddaughter.
Authorities were alerted Friday by a 911 caller reporting “that he had not contacted Margaret Craig for several days and was concerned for her well-being.” Upon arriving at the residence, Candace Craig opened the door and allowed officers to search the area.
However, as officers got closer to the basement, they became aware of the smell of decomposition, according to police. After collecting evidence and conducting various interviews, authorities believe Candace Craig murdered her mother on May 23 and that Hardy helped her dispose of her remains the next day.
“Homicide Unit detectives will ensure a thorough investigation is conducted and both suspects are held accountable for their cruel and criminal behavior,” said David Blazer, Commander of the Major Crimes Division.
The Office of the Medical Examiner continues to evaluate the case to confirm the identity of the deceased as well as the cause of death.
If you have information that helps to clarify the case, the authorities urge you to contact 301-516-2512. You can also call the anonymous line at 1-866-411-8477.
Stay tuned to Telemundo 44 for details.
