June 19, 2025

Investigations Underway in Clinton, South Carolina Fatal Shootings

News Summary

Clinton, South Carolina is facing serious concerns following two separate fatal shootings within a 24-hour period. The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office is conducting investigations into the fatalities of two men, one aged 40 and the other 69, with suspects in custody for both incidents. Community members are urged to assist in the investigations as police heighten efforts for crime prevention and safety.

Clinton, South Carolina is currently the focus of investigations into two separate fatal shootings that occurred within the same 24 hours. The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed details surrounding both incidents, one of which led to an arrest on the same day while the other suspect remains in custody awaiting a bond hearing.

The first shooting took place on Wednesday morning, June 4, 2025, around 6:30 a.m. on West Corporate Center Drive. Authorities responded to reports of gunfire and discovered a 40-year-old man named Brandon Xavier Gadsden from Newberry suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Gadsden was found in the parking area of Millers Fork Trail and was pronounced dead at the scene. A 17-year-old suspect named Kavonte Cunningham from Cross Hill was arrested later that evening at approximately 7 p.m.. Cunningham faces serious charges, including murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

In a separate incident only hours later, another shooting occurred on Florence Street on the same day, around 11:17 p.m.. Police responded to multiple reports of gunfire and discovered a 69-year-old man, identified as Rufford Jones, lying in the roadway with critical injuries from gunshot wounds. Medical personnel were dispatched promptly, and Jones was transported to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital.

The suspect involved in Jones’ shooting was identified as 34-year-old Vincent Marc Viner, who was detained at the scene by responding officers. Viner has been charged with murder, breach of peace-aggravated in nature, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. He is currently housed at the Johnson Detention Center, where he awaits a scheduled bond hearing.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been called in to assist with the crime scene investigation regarding the shooting of Rufford Jones. Officials have indicated that they view the second incident as isolated and do not believe that there is an ongoing threat to the safety of the community.

These tragic events have raised concerns within the local community, with many residents urging for actions to be taken to enhance safety measures. Both cases underline the ongoing issue of gun violence within various neighborhoods. Following these incidents, law enforcement officials are likely to increase community engagement efforts aimed at crime prevention and awareness.

The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate both shootings, and officials are seeking information from the public to aid in their inquiries. Community members are encouraged to report any relevant information that could assist in ensuring justice is served.

As investigations remain active, further updates are anticipated as law enforcement proceeds in both cases. The community stands united in hope for justice for the families of the victims while advocating for a reduction in gun violence.

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Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens 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 Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. 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.