Elderly Woman Dies After Alleged Neglect by Son in Anderson County, SC

Anderson, SC – March 27, 2025 – Authorities in Anderson County are investigating the tragic death of 86-year-old Carolyn Wemett of Liberty, South Carolina, after determining that her passing was a result of neglect by her own son.

Incident Details

On January 11, 2025, emergency responders were dispatched to Bagwell Road in Liberty, SC, following a 911 call reporting an unresponsive victim. Carolyn Wemett was found at the scene and immediately transported to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to her condition.

Investigation Findings

According to Greg Shore, the Anderson County Coroner, preliminary investigations indicate that Carolyn Wemett suffered a fall inside her home and remained on the ground for an extended period. Despite knowing that his mother had fallen, her son failed to provide any assistance or seek medical attention.

The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division, working alongside the Anderson County Coroner’s Office, reviewed investigative findings and autopsy results. The medical report confirmed that Carolyn Wemett died due to complications from prolonged incapacitation following the fall.

Her official cause of death was determined to be complications of prolonged incapacitation due to a fall, and the manner of death has been officially ruled as homicide due to her son’s failure to render aid.

Ongoing Investigation & Legal Ramifications

The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office has not yet released further details regarding potential charges against Carolyn Wemett’s son. However, given the homicide ruling, authorities are expected to take legal action against him.

Neglect leading to death is a serious offense under South Carolina law. If charged and convicted, the son could face criminal negligence, manslaughter, or even homicide charges depending on the severity of his actions and intent.

Elder Neglect & Abuse – A Growing Concern

The heartbreaking death of Carolyn Wemett sheds light on a widespread issue of elder neglect and abuse. Every year, thousands of elderly individuals suffer mistreatment, abandonment, or negligence—sometimes at the hands of their own family members.

🚨 Warning Signs of Elder Neglect Include:
✔ Lack of basic necessities such as food, water, and medication
✔ Untreated injuries or illnesses
✔ Poor hygiene and unsanitary living conditions
✔ Isolation from friends and other family members
✔ Emotional withdrawal or fear around caregivers

If you suspect elder abuse or neglect in South Carolina, report it immediately to the Department of Social Services (DSS) Adult Protective Services at (803) 898-7318 or contact local law enforcement.

Community Reaction & Calls for Justice

The tragic case of Carolyn Wemett has shaken the Liberty community, with many expressing outrage and sorrow over the circumstances surrounding her death. Neighbors and friends described her as a kind-hearted woman who deserved care and compassion in her final years—not neglect and suffering.

Local advocacy groups are urging for stronger protections for elderly individuals living in vulnerable conditions. Authorities are encouraging friends, neighbors, and community members to be vigilant and report any suspicions of elder neglect or abuse to prevent further tragedies.

What Happens Next?

🔹 Authorities will continue investigating the full circumstances of Carolyn Wemett’s death.
🔹 The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office may file charges against her son based on their findings.
🔹 Community awareness efforts will be amplified to address elder neglect in South Carolina.

Conclusion

The death of Carolyn Wemett serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers of elder neglect. As the investigation continues, many hope that justice will be served, and that no other elderly individuals will have to suffer such a tragic fate.

For those in need of help or suspecting elder abuse, please contact:
📞 National Elder Abuse Hotline: 1-800-677-1116
📞 Anderson County Sheriff’s Office: (864) 260-4400

May Carolyn Wemett rest in peace, and may this tragedy lead to greater awareness and protection for vulnerable seniors.