July 28, 2025

Clinton Police Arrest Teen in Connection to Fatal Shooting

News Summary

A late-night shooting in Clinton, South Carolina, led to the death of 69-year-old Rufford Jones and the arrest of Vincent Marc Viner, charged with murder. In a separate incident, 17-year-old Kovonte Cunningham was also arrested for another shooting death. Local authorities are investigating both cases as gun violence raises community concerns.

Clinton Police Arrest Teen in Connection to Shooting that Left One Man Dead

A late-night shooting in Clinton, South Carolina, has resulted in one man’s death and the arrest of a teenager linked to another violent incident. Clinton Police Department responded to reports of multiple gunshots on Florence Street at approximately 11:17 p.m. on Tuesday. Upon arrival, officers discovered 69-year-old Rufford Jones injured in the roadway with multiple gunshot wounds.

Rufford Jones was promptly transported to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. In connection with this incident, 34-year-old Vincent Marc Viner was detained at the scene. He has since been arrested and charged with murder. Viner is currently being held at the Johnson Detention Center and is awaiting a scheduled bond hearing.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) assisted local authorities in the ongoing crime scene investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding Jones’s death. As of now, details regarding the motive behind the shooting have not been disclosed.

Related Incident Involving a Second Victim

In an unrelated case, local law enforcement also responded to another shooting incident on June 4, where deputies were called to the intersection of West Corporate Center Drive and Highway 72 East around 6:30 a.m. Authorities located another gunshot victim, identified as 40-year-old Brandon Xavier Gadsden from Newberry. Gadsden was initially believed to have been shot in the parking area of Millers Fork Trail and later died from his injuries.

As the investigation progressed, at approximately 7 p.m. the same day, deputies arrested 17-year-old Kovonte Cunningham of Cross Hill in connection with Gadsden’s shooting. Cunningham has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

Background on Gun Violence in Clinton

The recent spate of violence in Clinton highlights ongoing concerns about gun-related incidents within the community. Law enforcement agencies are increasing efforts to address such violent crimes, and community outreach programs are being designed to prevent future incidents.

Both shooting cases have drawn attention, and community members are urged to remain vigilant while local authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding these tragedies. The Clinton Police Department has emphasized the importance of community cooperation in ensuring safety and justice.

In response to these incidents, local authorities are also working to foster dialogue around the issues of gun violence, aiming to establish a more peaceful environment for residents. The situation serves as a somber reminder of the serious implications of violent crime and the need for collective action against it.

As investigations unfold, further updates regarding both cases will be provided by law enforcement. Community members and families affected by this violence are encouraged to seek support and stay informed about ongoing developments.

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Additional Resources

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.