South Carolina mother charged with murder after infant's death

Tynisha Lashae Jones, 34, has been charged with murder/homicide by child abuse following the death of her 10-month-old daughter, Talayah, in Anderson, South Carolina.

The investigation began on December 12, 2025, after emergency responders were called to a home on Howland Drive regarding an unresponsive infant. Talayah was treated at the scene and transported to AnMed Medical Center, where she later died.

A months-long probe by the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, which included a search of the family home and review of medical records, led to the charges. Laboratory testing revealed high levels of morphine in the infant’s blood. The coroner determined the cause of death was combined drug toxicity involving morphine and hydromorphone, classifying the death as a homicide.

Authorities allege that Jones administered the drugs to the child, though specific details regarding the method of administration have not been released. Jones is currently held at the Anderson County Detention Center after being denied bond.