Laurens SC, September 30, 2025
News Summary
A series of shooting incidents in Laurens and Clinton has led to multiple arrests, including three juveniles charged with attempted murder, and one fatality. 69-year-old Rufford Jones was killed in Clinton, with a suspect arrested. Community vigilance is urged as law enforcement investigates these violent occurrences.
Laurens, SC – A violent week in Laurens and Clinton has led to multiple arrests and one fatality following a series of shooting incidents. On Wednesday, three juveniles were apprehended in connection with a shooting that occurred around 11 am on Church Street.
Laurens Police Chief Heath Copeland confirmed that the police received reports of a shooting at 900 Church Street, where a vehicle occupied by three individuals was struck by gunfire. The juveniles arrested have been charged with Attempted Murder, two counts of Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature, Possession of a Weapon During a Violent Crime, and Discharging into an Occupied Vehicle. Chief Copeland indicated that the shooting was an isolated incident involving parties who were known to each other.
In a separate incident in nearby Clinton, police responded to reports of multiple gunshots on Florence Street shortly after 11:17 p.m. on Tuesday night. Officers discovered a 69-year-old victim, identified as Rufford Jones, suffering from gunshot wounds in the roadway. Jones was transported to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Authorities detained a 34-year-old suspect, Vincent Marc Viner, at the scene, who now faces a charge of murder. Viner is currently being held at the Johnson Detention Center, awaiting a bond hearing.
In another shooting on Wednesday in Laurens County, a 17-year-old named Kavonte Cunningham allegedly shot and killed 40-year-old Brandon Xavier Gadsden in a parking area near Millers Fork Trail around 6:30 a.m. Cunningham was arrested later that evening, around 7 p.m.
The series of violent incidents has left the community on edge, as local law enforcement works diligently to investigate and respond to these occurrences. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been assisting with the crime scene investigations related to these cases.
In light of these events, the Laurens and Clinton communities are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement. Authorities are actively working to ensure the safety and security of the residents in this troubling time.
Background Context
Gun violence has been a pressing issue in many communities across the nation, and Laurens and Clinton are no exceptions. The recent incidents bring attention to the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and community leaders to curb violence and ensure public safety. Residents are reminded of the importance of open communication with law enforcement to report concerns and encourage preventive measures against violence.
FAQ
What incidents took place in Laurens and Clinton?
Three juveniles were arrested in Laurens for a shooting incident, while a separate shooting in Clinton resulted in the death of Rufford Jones. Additionally, a 17-year-old was charged with the murder of Brandon Xavier Gadsden in Laurens County.
Who were the individuals involved in these incidents?
The juveniles arrested in Laurens were not named. Rufford Jones was the victim in the Clinton shooting, and Vincent Marc Viner was detained and charged with his murder. Kavonte Cunningham was charged with the murder of Brandon Xavier Gadsden.
What charges have been filed against the suspects?
The juveniles are charged with Attempted Murder, Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature, Possession of a Weapon During a Violent Crime, and Discharging into an Occupied Vehicle. Vincent Marc Viner faces a murder charge, while Kavonte Cunningham was charged with murder as well.
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Additional Resources
- GoLaurens: Church Street Shooting Involving Juveniles
- Fox Carolina: Man Charged After Gunshot Victim Found
- WSPA: Teen Arrested in Connection to Fatal Shooting in Clinton
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- Google Search: Gun Violence in 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.
