Clinton SC, October 11, 2025
News Summary
Clinton, SC faced a heartbreaking weekend with two separate shooting incidents resulting in two deaths and several arrests. The first shooting claimed the life of 20-year-old Taneal Evans on Coleman Road, while the second incident took the life of 69-year-old Rufford Jones on Florence Street. Investigations by local authorities, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, are ongoing, and community members are urged to provide any information that could assist in identifying suspects.
Clinton, SC experienced a tragic weekend of violence, marked by two separate shooting incidents resulting in two fatalities and multiple arrests. The incidents took place over the course of just a few days, prompting investigations by local law enforcement agencies and state authorities.
The first shooting incident occurred on Friday night at approximately 9 PM on Coleman Road. During this event, one individual was found deceased at the scene, identified as 20-year-old Taneal Evans, a resident of Clinton. Another person involved in the incident had already been taken to the hospital with gunshot wounds. In response to the event, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO), and the Laurens County Coroner’s Office are conducting an investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information to report tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers, where there are potential rewards for information leading to arrests.
Shortly after, the second incident took place on Tuesday night around 11:17 PM on Florence Street. Clinton Police were called to the scene after receiving multiple reports of gunfire at the location. Upon arrival, officers found 69-year-old Rufford Jones lying in the roadway suffering from gunshot wounds. Immediate medical assistance was administered by the officers on-site until Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived. Despite efforts to save him, Jones was transported to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly after. The suspect in this incident, 34-year-old Vincent Marc Viner, was detained at the scene and charged with murder, breach of peace aggravated in nature, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Viner is currently held at Johnson Detention Center, awaiting a bond hearing. The Laurens County Coroner’s Office confirmed Jones’s identity and noted that he sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the altercation. SLED is also involved in the investigation of this crime scene, indicating the event is considered isolated, with no ongoing threat to the surrounding community.
Authorities are actively seeking information regarding both violent incidents and encourage community members to contact local law enforcement or Crime Stoppers if they have anything that could assist with the investigations. The tragic nature of these events raises concerns about violence in the area, as local and state law enforcement officials strive to restore a sense of safety to the community.
FAQ
What incidents occurred in Clinton, SC over the weekend?
Two separate shooting incidents occurred in Clinton, South Carolina, leading to two fatalities and multiple arrests over the weekend.
Who were the victims of the shootings?
The deceased has been identified as 20-year-old Taneal Evans from Clinton and 69-year-old Rufford Jones.
Is there any ongoing threat to the community following the shootings?
SLED assisted in the crime scene investigation, indicating the incident is believed to be isolated with no ongoing threat to the community.
What should individuals do if they have information regarding the incidents?
Authorities encourage anyone with information on either incident to contact local law enforcement or Crime Stoppers.
Summary of Shootings
| Incident | Date and Time | Location | Victim | Suspect | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shooting 1 | Friday, 9 PM | Coleman Road | Taneal Evans, 20 | N/A | Investigation ongoing |
| Shooting 2 | Tuesday, 11:17 PM | Florence Street | Rufford Jones, 69 | Vincent Marc Viner, 34 | Charged with murder |
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Additional Resources
- My Clinton News: Shooting Incident
- GoLaurens: Clinton Shooting Incident
- WYFF4: Clinton Roommate Murder Charge
- Fox Carolina: Gunshot Victim Found in Laurens Co.
- GoLaurens: Arrested After Fatal Shooting in Clinton
- Wikipedia: Clinton, South Carolina
- Google Search: Clinton SC Shooting
- Google Scholar: Clinton South Carolina Shooting News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Violence
- Google News: Clinton South Carolina
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.
