News Summary
A shooting incident in Clinton, South Carolina, late Tuesday night has resulted in the death of 69-year-old Rufford Jones. The suspect, 34-year-old Vincent Marc Viner, was arrested at the scene and faces multiple charges, including murder. Community leaders are discussing safety measures in response to the gruesome act, as law enforcement continues an investigation and assures residents of their safety.
Clinton, SC – One Dead and Suspect Arrested Following Late-Night Shooting
One person is dead and a suspect is in custody following a shooting incident in Clinton, South Carolina, late Tuesday night. The shooting occurred around 11:17 PM on June 30, 2025, on Florence Street. Local law enforcement received reports of multiple gunshots at the location, prompting immediate police response.
When officers arrived at the scene located at 304 Florence Street, they found 69-year-old Rufford Jones lying in the roadway with multiple gunshot wounds. Officers provided him with immediate medical assistance before Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived for further care. Jones was subsequently transported to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
The suspected shooter, identified as 34-year-old Vincent Marc Viner, was detained on-site by the authorities. Viner now faces several charges including murder, breach of peace-aggravated in nature, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. He is currently held at the Johnson Detention Center and is awaiting a scheduled bond hearing.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has lent support to local law enforcement for the ongoing crime scene investigation. Officials have indicated that they believe the incident to be isolated with no ongoing threat to the community.
Incident Overview
According to the initial reports received by law enforcement, the tragic event unfolded rapidly, resulting in a significant police presence. Residents in the area reported hearing several gunshots, which initiated a swift response from patrol units. Upon discovery of the victim, the urgency of the situation prompted officers to render first aid while awaiting EMS personnel.
Victim Information
Rufford Jones, aged 69, is remembered by family and friends as a respected member of the community. The suddenness of his death has left those who knew him in shock, as reports indicated that he was well-regarded among his neighbors and local acquaintances.
Suspect Details
Vincent Marc Viner, the alleged shooter, has had prior interactions with law enforcement. Described in reports as having a troubled history, his apprehension and subsequent charges suggest a serious escalation in his behavior. Viner was taken into custody without incident on the scene, indicating that law enforcement acted promptly to neutralize any potential threats.
Community Response and Safety Measures
The Clinton community has been shaken by this incident, prompting local leaders to discuss safety measures and resources for residents. Officials are encouraging individuals to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. While this isolated incident has raised concerns, law enforcement has assured the public that they are committed to maintaining safety and security in the area.
Investigation Progress
The ongoing investigation into the shooting will include interviewing witnesses and examining potential evidence found at the crime scene. Authorities have committed to providing updates as more information becomes available and are focused on ensuring a thorough investigation into the events that transpired.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges communities face with gun violence. The residents of Clinton are left mourning the loss of Rufford Jones while seeking answers regarding this tragic occurrence.
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Additional Resources
- Golaurens: One Arrested After Fatal Shooting in Clinton
- Wikipedia: Shooting
- Fox Carolina: Man Charged After Gunshot Victim Found
- Google Search: Clinton SC shooting
- WSPA: Teen Arrested in Connection to Fatal Shooting in Clinton
- Google News: Fatal Shooting Clinton SC
- Count on 2: Man Shoots Ex-Wife, Kills Himself at Downtown Laurens Business
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shooting
- My Clinton News: Hometown Heroes 2025
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence
Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
The HERE Clinton Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Clinton community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Clinton: Our team includes lifelong Clinton residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Clinton’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., Clinton Technical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Clinton Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
