Clinton, SC, August 18, 2025

News Summary

Clinton, SC, faces a disturbing rise in violent crime, including multiple homicides and attempted murder. Recent incidents involved a stabbing, a fatal shooting, and a gruesome welfare check. Authorities emphasize the importance of community assistance in ongoing investigations as they seek to ensure public safety. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement. The community’s response reflects a heightened sense of vigilance and responsibility in combating crime.

Clinton, SC – Recent criminal activities in Clinton have raised alarms within the community as law enforcement agencies work diligently to address multiple incidents resulting in homicides and arrests. The latest of these developments includes the apprehension of Cameron Wayne Blackwell, a suspect wanted for attempted murder.

Cameron Wayne Blackwell, 30 years old, was taken into custody after authorities launched a search for him following a stabbing incident at a residence located on the 700 block of Charlottes Road. The incident occurred on Friday, prompting emergency responders to arrive at the scene. However, Blackwell had fled prior to their arrival. The search operated into the early morning hours of Saturday, leading to his eventual capture.

In a separate and concerning incident, the Clinton Police Department reported a fatal shooting that took place late Tuesday night. The shooting occurred at approximately 11:17 p.m. on Florence Street, where multiple gunshots were documented. Officers responded to the scene and discovered 69-year-old Rufford Jones lying in the roadway suffering from gunshot wounds. He was quickly transported to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Following the shooting, authorities detained 34-year-old Vincent Marc Viner at the scene. Viner faces murder charges and is currently held at the Johnson Detention Center while awaiting a bond hearing.

Additionally, police conducted a welfare check at a residence on Poplar Street in Clint
on, leading to further grim discoveries. Officers found a deceased individual identified as Hector Luis Santos Cartagena, 59 years old. Cartagena was found inside the home, and his roommate, 23-year-old Stephen Kristopher Brown, has since been charged with murder, desecration of human remains, and ill treatment of animals. Brown is also being held at the Johnson Detention Center.

In light of these recent incidents, law enforcement officials are urging the public to assist in ongoing investigations. Citizens with any information regarding these cases are encouraged to contact the Clinton Police Department or to reach out to Laurens County Crime Stoppers.

Summary of Recent Incidents in Clinton

• Incident 1: Stabbing on Charlottes Road – Cameron Wayne Blackwell, 30, arrested on attempted murder charges.
• Incident 2: Shooting on Florence Street – Victim Rufford Jones, 69, pronounced dead; Vincent Marc Viner, 34, charged with murder.
• Incident 3: Discovery of deceased Hector Luis Santos Cartagena, 59, on Poplar Street; Stephen Kristopher Brown, 23, charged with murder and other crimes.

Community Response

The recent wave of violence in Clinton has ignited concern among residents, highlighting the need for vigilance and community engagement in local law enforcement efforts. Authorities stress the importance of public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities or providing information related to ongoing investigations.

FAQs

Key Features of Recent Incidents in Clinton

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Manhunt Underway Following Double Homicide at State Park
Deputy Attorney General’s Meetings with Ghislaine Maxwell Raise Concerns
17-Year-Old Charged with Murder in Laurens County Shooting
Aiken County Investigates Discovery of Decomposed Body
Shooting Incidents in Chester County Leave One Dead
Investigation Launched After Decomposed Body Discovered in Aiken
Tragic Death Investigation in Clinton, South Carolina
Shooting Incidents in Chester County Lead to One Fatality
Teen Arrested in Connection with Fatal Chester County Shootings

Additional Resources

• WYFF4: Upstate Man Wanted for Attempted Murder
• Google Search: Clinton SC crime news
• WSPA: Attempted Murder Suspect Wanted in Upstate
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Clinton South Carolina
• My Clinton News: A Death Investigation in Lydia Mill
• Fox Carolina: Man Charged After Gunshot Victim Found

Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN

The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken 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 Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. 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.