The tragic outcome of what began as an act of kindness has left the Pima County community in shock. According to WSAZ, 53-year-old Paul Clifford was found dead near a smoldering vehicle in a remote part of southern Arizona on Christmas Eve. Clifford had reportedly gone to assist someone with car troubles after the individual approached him at his home.
Investigations into the death revealed that Clifford had taken his daughter Sabrina Vining's truck around 11:30 p.m. on December 23, 2023, to help jump-start another vehicle. When he failed to return, concerned relatives contacted authorities, according to WSAZ. The Pima County Sheriff's Department responded to a tip about suspicious activity on 14000 N. San Pedro River Road, where evidence suggested the incident was connected to a stolen vehicle, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix. Deputy Adam Schoonover emphasized the area's remoteness, stating, "It's very far. It's very remote and to get out there, it takes a specific vehicle. I think you can get there in a regular two-wheel-drive vehicle, but it's going to be very slow-going."
Detectives later discovered a stolen vehicle related to the case at an apartment complex. The risks associated with lending a helping hand to strangers were underscored by Deputy Schoonover, who advised, "If something doesn’t feel right, don’t go through with it. Maybe, just tell the person you can’t help them out or maybe take somebody with you or whatever the case may be" as reported by WSAZ. Despite the arrests, it's unclear if there is a prospective threat to the community, with Schoonover noting, "I don't think that there’s anything that says this is ongoing, but with this type of incident you never really know."
The case saw a breakthrough on Monday, with the apprehension of three individuals by Pima County authorities, these suspects, 19-year-old Elmer Smith, 40-year-old Jack Upchurch, and 16-year-old Wendy Scott, barricaded themselves within a residence before negotiations led to their surrender, and they were charged on felony arrest warrants, as per the account from FOX 10 Phoenix. The motive behind the crime remains under investigation, and detectives encourage anyone with insights to contact law enforcement. Meanwhile, Clifford’s relatives have begun a GoFundMe campaign to manage the expenses arising from this unforeseen tragedy.
