News Summary
A suspect has been charged with murder following a shooting in Clinton, South Carolina, where 69-year-old Rufford Jones was fatally injured. Authorities responded to reports of gunfire late Tuesday night and found Jones with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to the hospital but could not be saved. The suspect, Vincent Marc Viner, was arrested on-site and faces multiple charges, including murder. This incident has raised concerns about community safety and gun violence in the area.
Clinton, SC
Authorities have charged a suspect with murder following a deadly shooting that occurred late Tuesday night in Clinton, South Carolina. The incident took place around 11:17 p.m. on Florence Street, specifically at 304 Florence Street. The victim, identified as 69-year-old Rufford Jones, was found with multiple gunshot wounds and later died at the hospital.
Officers from the Clinton Police Department responded to reports of gunfire in the area. Upon their arrival, they discovered Jones lying in the roadway. Immediate medical assistance was rendered by the responding officers, and emergency medical services (EMS) were called to the scene. The victim was transported to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The suspect, 34-year-old Vincent Marc Viner, was detained at the scene by police. Following a brief investigation, Viner was arrested and 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, with a bond hearing scheduled for the near future.
The Laurens County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Jones sustained multiple gunshot wounds, further solidifying the seriousness of the incident. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is assisting with the ongoing investigation into the shooting.
Authorities have stated that they believe this incident is isolated, indicating that there is no ongoing threat to the community of Clinton. Investigators are working to gather more details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the relationship, if any, between the suspect and the victim.
Community Reaction
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the Clinton community, showing the alarming nature of gun violence impacting even small towns. Community members have expressed their condolences to the victim’s family and emphasized the need for increased safety measures within the area.
Background on Gun Violence in South Carolina
Gun violence remains a pressing issue across the United States, including South Carolina. Over recent years, there has been an increase in violent crimes, leading to discussions around gun control measures and community safety initiatives. Local law enforcement agencies have been working collaboratively with state and federal partners to address and reduce incidences of gun violence.
The Clinton Police Department is actively investigating this case and has asked anyone with further information to come forward to assist in the ongoing inquiry.
Overall, the shooting has reignited conversations regarding public safety and the effects of gun violence in communities, reminding citizens of the need for vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to ensure the safety of all residents.
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Additional Resources
- WSPA: Teen Arrested in Connection to Fatal Shooting in Clinton
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- GoLaurens: One Arrested After Fatal Shooting in Clinton
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Control
- WYFF4: Death Investigation Underway in Laurens County, South Carolina
- Google Search: Clinton South Carolina Crime
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.
