Clinton SC, October 11, 2025
News Summary
Over the weekend, Clinton experienced two separate fatal shooting incidents, raising alarm in the community. The first occurred on Coleman Road, resulting in the death of 20-year-old Taneal Evans. A second tragic incident led to the discovery of the body of 59-year-old Hector Luis Santos Cartagena, with charges filed against his roommate. Local authorities are actively investigating both cases and urge residents to report any information to aid in the investigations.
Clinton, SC—Two separate fatal shooting incidents occurred in Clinton over the weekend, resulting in one person’s death and charges against individuals involved in the cases. The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) is actively investigating these incidents, which have raised concerns within the local community.
On Friday night, October 10, 2025, deputies received reports of a shooting on Coleman Road around 9 PM. Upon arrival, they found one individual deceased at the scene, identified as Taneal Evans, 20, of Clinton. Another individual, who had sustained gunshot wounds, had already been transported to the hospital prior to deputies’ arrival. The investigation is being conducted by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), LCSO, and the Laurens County Coroner’s Office. Authorities are urging anyone with information about this incident to report it anonymously to Crime Stoppers via www.p3tips.com or by calling 864-68-CRIME (864-682-7463). Tips leading to an arrest may result in a cash reward.
In an unrelated incident, a welfare check at a home on Poplar Street revealed the body of 59-year-old Hector Luis Santos Cartagena after neighbors reported that they had not seen him for over a week. His 23-year-old roommate, Stephen Kristopher Brown, has been charged with murder, desecration of human remains, and ill treatment of animals. Brown is currently detained at the Johnson Detention Center.
Additionally, on October 7, 2025, another shooting incident occurred on Florence Street. Clinton Police responded to reports of multiple gunshots at approximately 11:17 PM. Officers discovered 69-year-old Rufford Jones lying in the roadway with gunshot wounds. Medical assistance was rendered at the scene, and Jones was transported to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The suspect in this case, identified as 34-year-old Vincent Marc Viner, was detained at the scene and now faces charges of murder, breach of peace-aggravated in nature, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Viner is also being held at the Johnson Detention Center and awaits a bond hearing. This incident is believed to be isolated, with no ongoing threat to the community. SLED is also supporting the investigation in this case.
Authorities are working diligently to investigate both incidents and secure justice for the victims involved. Community members with any further information are strongly encouraged to reach out to the relevant police departments.
FAQs
What happened in Clinton on October 10, 2025?
One person is dead and another injured after a shooting incident in Clinton. The deceased has been identified as Taneal Evans, 20, of Clinton.
What charges have been filed in the separate shooting incidents?
In the incident involving Hector Luis Santos Cartagena, his roommate Stephen Kristopher Brown has been charged with murder, desecration of human remains, and ill treatment of animals. Vincent Marc Viner, the suspect in the fatal shooting of Rufford Jones, faces charges of murder, breach of peace-aggravated in nature, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
How can residents provide information regarding the incidents?
Those with information on the incidents are encouraged to report anonymously to Crime Stoppers via www.p3tips.com or at 864-68-CRIME (864-682-7463). Tips leading to an arrest may result in a cash reward.
Key Features of the Shooting Incidents in Clinton, SC
| Incident Date | Location | Victim(s) | Suspect(s) | Charges Filed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| October 10, 2025 | Coleman Road | Taneal Evans (deceased), one injured | Unknown | Under investigation |
| October 10, 2025 | Poplar Street | Hector Luis Santos Cartagena (deceased) | Stephen Kristopher Brown | Murder, desecration of human remains, ill treatment of animals |
| October 7, 2025 | Florence Street | Rufford Jones (deceased) | Vincent Marc Viner | Murder, breach of peace-aggravated in nature, possession of a weapon during a violent crime |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shooting Incidents in Chester County Leave One Dead
Shooting Incidents in Chester County Lead to One Fatality
Teen Arrested in Connection with Fatal Chester County Shootings
FBI and ATF Investigate Surge in Shootings in Lancaster, SC
Retaliatory Shootings Shake Lancaster, SC Community
Additional Resources
- My Clinton News: 20-year-old Clinton man is shot dead
- GoLaurens: Shooting Incident in Clinton Friday Night
- WYFF: Clinton Roommate Murder Charge
- Fox Carolina: Man Charged After Gunshot Victim Found
- GoLaurens: One Arrested After Fatal Shooting in Clinton
- Wikipedia: Clinton, South Carolina
- Google Search: Shooting Incidents Clinton SC
- Google Scholar: Shooting Clinton South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Clinton South Carolina
- Google News: Clinton SC
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