July 29, 2025

Teen Arrested in Connection with Fatal Shooting in Clinton

News Summary

A 17-year-old male has been arrested in Clinton, SC, following a fatal shooting incident that left 40-year-old Brandon Xavier Gadsden dead. The shooting took place early in the morning, and authorities later apprehended the suspect, Kevonte Cunningham, on murder charges. A second shooting incident was reported the same day, resulting in another fatality. Investigations are ongoing, and police assure the community of their safety.

Clinton, SC – Teen Arrested in Connection with Fatal Shooting

A 17-year-old male, identified as Kevonte Cunningham from Cross Hill, was arrested on the evening of June 4, 2025, following a fatal shooting that took place earlier that morning in Clinton, South Carolina. Cunningham is facing serious charges, including murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

The shooting incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. at the intersection of West Corporate Center Drive and Highway 72 East. Authorities found a victim, later identified as 40-year-old Brandon Xavier Gadsden from Newberry, at the scene. Despite efforts to assist him, Gadsden succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after the incident.

According to investigators, Gadsden was reportedly shot in the parking area of Millers Fork Trail. Cunningham was apprehended by law enforcement at around 7 p.m. the same day. The local police department is continuing to gather evidence in this case.

In a separate incident occurring later the same day, around 11:17 p.m., another shooting took place on Florence Street in Clinton. Officers responded to reports of multiple gunshots at the residence located at 304 Florence Street. Upon arrival, they discovered a victim, 69-year-old Rufford Jones, lying in the roadway with multiple gunshot wounds.

Jones was immediately transported to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The suspect involved in this second shooting has been identified as 34-year-old Vincent Marc Viner, who was detained at the scene. 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 bond hearing.

The investigations into both shootings are being managed by the Laurens County Coroner’s Office, with assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) for the crime scene analysis. Law enforcement officials have stated that they believe both shootings are isolated incidents and affirm that there is no ongoing threat to the community.

Community members are urged to remain vigilant but assured that police are actively working to ensure the safety of residents as these investigations unfold.

As investigations continue, local authorities are expected to provide further updates regarding both incidents in the coming days.