Warrant: Zahra Baker Died Weeks Before Reported Missing

NEWTON, N.C. -- Zahra Baker's stepmother has told police the disabled 10-year-old girl died more than two weeks before her parents reported her missing.

According to search warrants unsealed Tuesday, Elisa Baker told Hickory police in November that the girl died on Sept. 24, and was dismembered and disposed of the following day.

The warrant doesn't say how Zahra died.

Police found Zahra's remains at various points around western North Carolina based on information given to them by Elisa Baker.

Zahra was reported missing by her parents on Oct. 9, who said she disappeared during the night. No one has been charged in her death.

Elisa Baker is currently jailed on charges of obstructing justice during the investigation.