South Carolina Mother Charged in Infant Morphine Death

Tynisha Lashae Jones, 34, of Anderson, South Carolina, has been charged with murder/homicide by child abuse in connection with the death of her 10-month-old daughter, Talayah Lucille Donaldson. The Anderson County Sheriff's Office said the investigation began Dec. 12, 2025, after a 911 call reported an unresponsive infant at a home on Howland Drive. Responders transported the child to AnMed Medical Center, where she died. Deputies searched the residence and sent specimens for laboratory testing. Results showed a high dose of morphine in the infant's blood. The coroner ruled the death a homicide, citing combined morphine and hydromorphone toxicity. Investigators, after reviewing medical records and other evidence, accused Jones of administering morphine to her daughter. She was arrested Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, booked into the Anderson County Detention Center, and a judge denied her bond. CONTESTED: No factual disputes found in the available record. The case proceeds through the courts following the charge and bond denial.