AIKEN, S.C. — Authorities are investigating the death of a longtime local business owner after he was found inside his restaurant Friday afternoon.
Jimmy D. Varos, 78, the owner of Aiken’s Variety Restaurant on York Street NE, was discovered deceased in a section of the building converted into a living space. Family members had requested a well-being check just after 3:30 p.m., prompting officers from the Department of Public Safety to respond. Varos was pronounced dead shortly before 4 p.m., according to Aiken County Coroner Darryl Ables.
Officers also reported detecting a strong odor of propane gas inside the restaurant at the time of the discovery. While foul play is not currently suspected, authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of death.
An autopsy is scheduled for next week to provide further clarity. Varos was a familiar face in the Aiken community, known for running the family-owned restaurant and serving patrons for decades. Friends, neighbors, and regular customers expressed shock and sadness at the news of his passing.
Officials urge anyone with additional information to contact the Aiken County Coroner’s Office or the Department of Public Safety. The community is mourning the sudden loss of a local entrepreneur whose presence had been a staple of Aiken’s downtown scene.
No further details have been released at this time.
