July 5, 2025

Shooting in Clinton Leaves One Dead, Suspect Charged

News Summary

A late night shooting in Clinton has resulted in the death of 69-year-old Rufford Jones, with 34-year-old Vincent Marc Viner charged with murder. The incident occurred on Florence Street, prompting an investigation by local police and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Residents are in shock as law enforcement assures no ongoing threat to the community. As investigations continue, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.

Clinton, S.C. – A shooting late Tuesday night has left one person dead and a suspect charged with murder. The incident took place around 11:17 p.m. on Florence Street, according to officials from the Clinton Police Department.

When police arrived at the scene after receiving several reports of gunfire, they found 69-year-old Rufford Jones lying in the roadway with injuries from multiple gunshot wounds. Officers at the scene rendered immediate medical assistance before Laurens County EMS transported Jones to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The suspect identified in the case is Vincent Marc Viner, a 34-year-old man who was detained at the scene of the shooting. Following the incident, Viner was officially charged with several offenses including 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 while awaiting a bond hearing.

Authorities from the Laures County Coroner’s Office confirmed Jones’s identity and noted the cause of death resulting from the multiple gunshot wounds sustained during the altercation. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has joined the investigation to analyze the crime scene and gather further evidence.

According to police, the situation appears to be an isolated incident, and they reassured the community that there is no ongoing threat related to this shooting.

This shooting marks a tragic event for the Clinton community, as residents are grappling with the loss of a local individual. Investigations are ongoing, with law enforcement officers working diligently to uncover the details surrounding the circumstances leading to this fatal incident.

In recent years, the Clinton Police Department has worked to enhance community safety measures and engage local citizens in crime prevention strategies. However, this latest event serves as a sobering reminder of the violence that can impact any community.

As the investigation continues, officials encourage anyone with information relevant to the case to come forward and assist law enforcement efforts. The police department remains committed to ensuring justice for Mr. Jones and his family during this difficult time.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds and more information becomes available.

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Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

CLINTON STAFF WRITER 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.