Tonya Lynn Zorn (April 1989 – July 23, 2025), age 35, of Warrenville, South Carolina, peacefully passed away on Wednesday afternoon, July 23, 2025, while in custody at the Aiken County Detention Center.
The Aiken County Coroner’s Office and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) have launched a joint investigation into her death, although authorities have indicated at this time that no signs of foul play are suspected.
Tonya was discovered unresponsive in her cell around 5:30 p.m, and emergency medical personnel transported her to Aiken Regional Medical Centers, where she was later pronounced deceased.
An autopsy has been scheduled in Newberry to determine the official cause and manner of death.
A native of Warrenville, Tonya battled long‑standing struggles with addiction and legal difficulties. According to court records, she had multiple arrests dating back to 2020 including charges for methamphetamine distribution, drug possession, and breach of trust .
In 2023, she received probation and was ordered to complete inpatient drug rehabilitation.
When a bed became available at The Morris Village Alcohol and Drug Addiction Treatment Center in Columbia, authorities delayed her release until placement was confirmed.
Tragically, she passed away before transfer, after being detained for two weeks awaiting treatment.
Though public records note her legal history and health struggles, those close to her remember more than her difficulties Tonya was known for her resilience, her longing for healing, and her desire to rebuild.
In the days before her death, her family had launched an online fundraiser to support funeral costs, noting the lack of insurance and the emotional toll of her sudden loss. Steve and Shelia Zorn, presumably family members, expressed deep grief:
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Tonya … this sudden loss has left our family devastated … we want to honor Tonya’s life with the dignity and respect she deserves”.
Tonya is remembered by family and friends in Warrenville and the surrounding Aiken County communities as a woman who despite hardship sought moments of hope and connection.
While public coverage has focused on the circumstances surrounding her death, those who knew her best recall her warm smile, the stories she shared, and the quiet determination she showed in her attempts to overcome addiction.
No formal obituary in legacy outlets has yet been published, nor has a funeral home released full memorial details.
As the coroner’s investigation concludes, the family and local announcements may offer information on services or memorial gatherings.
Tonya’s story is a poignant reminder of the intersection between mental health, addiction, and justice-system barriers. Her passing while awaiting treatment an outcome no one sought underscores urgent questions around access to rehabilitation for vulnerable individuals.
Though the details of her life were often overshadowed by her struggles, her family’s words convey a desire to elevate her dignity in death and to cherish the person she was beneath her hardships.
In mourning, her loved ones and community seek healing.
May Tonya Lynn Zorn’s memory inspire greater compassion and greater efforts toward support for those fighting similar battles.
