SPARTANBURG, S.C. – A South Carolina mother is accused of killing her 17-month-old daughter by feeding her a teaspoon of salt.
Spartanburg County Coroner Rusty Clevenger says Peyton Martines was taken off life support Wednesday afternoon.
Charges against 23-year-old Kimberly Martines of Fingerville have been upgraded to homicide by child abuse.
Solicitor Barry Barnette told local media outlets that Martines fed the toddler salt to try to win back her husband's affection. The two are separated.
Arrest warrants say a pediatrician was concerned in November because Peyton was not gaining wait. But Martines ignored the doctor's referrals to a specialist and an agency that helps babies with developmental delays.
Deputies say a twin sister of the toddler and second sibling are in protective custody.
It wasn't known if Martines has a lawyer.
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