Aiken, S.C., September 11, 2025
News Summary
The Aiken County Coroner’s Office is investigating a body discovered in an abandoned vehicle in Aiken, South Carolina. Identified as a Black male, believed to be homeless, foul play is not suspected. An autopsy is scheduled, and the investigation continues. Additionally, a significant misidentification incident occurred at the coroner’s office, where a body was prematurely cremated. This has raised concerns about the identification protocols within the office, prompting a review to prevent future errors.
Aiken, S.C. – Coroner’s Office Investigates Body Found in Abandoned Vehicle; Misidentification Leads to Premature Cremation Incident
The Aiken County Coroner’s Office is currently investigating a body found in an abandoned vehicle on Williston Road in Aiken, South Carolina. The discovery occurred just before 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, when a local homeowner stumbled upon the deceased body while inspecting the area.
Authorities have identified the body as that of a Black male, reported to be a homeless individual known to frequent the vicinity. However, positive identification is pending the results of a fingerprint analysis. According to Coroner Darryl Ables, foul play is not suspected in this case, and an autopsy has been scheduled to determine the cause and manner of death. This examination is set to take place in Newberry.
The incident is currently under investigation by both the Aiken County Coroner’s Office and the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office. This investigation is ongoing and details are still emerging.
On the same day as the discovery, additional reports surfaced regarding two suspicious deaths in Richmond County, prompting further investigations in the neighboring area. Though these incidents are separate from the body found in Aiken, they have contributed to heightened awareness and concern for community safety.
Misidentification and Premature Cremation Incident
Alongside this investigation, a significant issue emerged at the Aiken County Coroner’s Office involving the misidentification of a deceased person. A body was mistakenly released for cremation—a serious error that was only discovered the day following its release to a local funeral home. This incident raises questions about the protocols in place at the coroner’s office.
Coroner Ables reported the misidentification to both the Aiken County Attorney’s Office and the South Carolina Coroners’ Association. Furthermore, he notified the South Carolina Funeral Directors’ Association and the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation due to the involvement of a funeral home and crematory in this case. Ables stressed the importance of accurate identification processes and accepted full accountability for the error.
A comprehensive review of the procedures leading to this misidentification will be conducted to better understand how the incident occurred and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Ables expressed regret for the distress this situation has caused the family of the deceased.
Coroner’s Office Protocols
The Aiken County Coroner’s Office adheres to a multi-step protocol for the release of bodies, which includes a verification log that must be signed by both the agency accepting custody of the body and the coroner’s staff member releasing it. The details of any potential punishments or legal repercussions concerning the coroner’s office or its staff members have not been made available at this time.
FAQ Section
What was found in the abandoned vehicle?
A deceased body was discovered inside the vehicle, identified as a Black male believed to be homeless.
Is foul play suspected in the death?
No, foul play is not suspected according to the coroner’s office.
What protocol did the coroner’s office follow for body identification?
The Aiken County Coroner’s Office follows a multi-step protocol including a verification log that requires signatures from both the agency taking custody and the coroner’s staff member.
What actions are being taken after the cremation mix-up?
A comprehensive review of the incident will be conducted to understand the error and prevent future occurrences. Authorities have been notified to address the situation, including the Aiken County Attorney’s Office and various associations.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Aiken, S.C. |
| Date of Discovery | September 10, 2025 |
| Body Identified As | Black male, homeless individual |
| Autopsy Location | Newberry |
| Coroner’s Statement | No foul play suspected |
| Misidentification Incident | Body mistakenly released for cremation |
| Current Actions | Investigation underway, review of protocols to be conducted |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Two Fatal Vehicle Accidents Investigated in Orangeburg County
Tragic Golf Cart Accident Claims Life of Aiken County Man
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Tragic Golf Cart Accident Claims Life in Aiken County
Additional Resources
- WRDW: Coroner Gives New Details on Body Found in Aiken County
- Wikipedia: Coroner
- WIS TV: SC Coroner’s Office Misidentification Incident
- Google Search: Aiken Coroner’s Office misidentification
- Augusta Chronicle: Aiken Coroner’s Office Cremation Accident
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Coroner
- Fox 10: Aiken County Coroner’s Office Mistake
- WFXG: Aiken County Coroner’s Office Investigates Cremation Incident
- Google News: Aiken County Coroner Office
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
