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Shooting in Clinton SC Leaves One Dead, Suspect Arrested

Police lights at a shooting scene in Clinton SC at night

News Summary

A late-night shooting in Clinton, South Carolina, claimed the life of a 69-year-old man. The suspect, a 34-year-old man, has been charged with murder. The incident occurred on Florence Street, leading to a police investigation with support from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Authorities assure residents that the shooting appears isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the community, emphasizing the need for vigilance in safety.

Clinton, SC – One Dead, Suspect Charged After Late-Night Shooting

A late-night shooting in Clinton, South Carolina, has resulted in the death of a 69-year-old man and the arrest of a 34-year-old suspect. The incident took place on Florence Street around 11:17 p.m. on Tuesday, prompting a swift response from local authorities.

The Clinton Police Department received numerous reports of multiple gunshots in the area after which officers quickly arrived on the scene. They found Rufford Jones, the victim, lying in the roadway with several gunshot wounds. Immediate medical assistance was provided by the responding officers while Emergency Medical Services (EMS) transported Jones to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital.

Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Rufford Jones succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival at the hospital. The local authorities were subsequently alerted to the circumstances surrounding his death.

The suspect, identified as Vincent Marc Viner, was detained at the scene of the shooting. Following police investigations, Viner has been charged with murder, breach of peace aggravated in nature, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. He is currently being held at the Johnson Detention Center and is awaiting a scheduled bond hearing.

Investigation and Community Response

Investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) who have helped with the crime scene analysis. According to Laurens County Deputy Coroner Jim Black, Jones suffered multiple gunshot wounds that ultimately led to his death.

Local law enforcement officials have stated that the shooting incident appears to be isolated in nature. There are currently no indications that it poses any ongoing threat to the broader community. The police continue to gather information as they piece together the events leading to the tragic shooting.

Background Information

Clinton, a small city in Laurens County, has a population that values safety and community well-being. The occurrence of such violent events is troubling for residents who may feel a heightened sense of vulnerability. Law enforcement agencies in Clinton have been proactive in ensuring safety and security across the city, aiming to prevent crime and enforce public peace.

This recent incident marks a significant event in the local community, prompting discussions surrounding public safety and crime prevention. While the authorities work diligently to gather more information and bring clarity to the situation, community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity they observe.

As the investigation continues, updates may provide further insight into the relationship between the suspect and the victim, potentially unveiling motivations behind the shooting. For now, the focus remains on addressing the immediate aftermath while ensuring the community’s safety is a top priority.

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Additional Resources

STAFF HERE CLINTON
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.

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