An Arizona man known for his kindness and willingness to help others was tragically found dead on Christmas Eve, 14 miles from his home on a remote dirt road. The man, identified as Paul Clifford, had reportedly been drawn away from his home by an individual who claimed to be having car trouble, according to statements from the police and his family.
Clifford’s daughter, Sabrina Vining, took to social media to share the heartbreaking news of her father’s death, stating that he had been murdered. She revealed that her father had left their home to assist someone with a car jump-start. His body was later discovered on Tuesday in the vicinity of Redington Pass Road and San Pedro River Road in Pima County, near Tucson.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department believes that Clifford, 53, was killed after 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The individual who sought his help was described as a stranger. The exact cause of Clifford’s death remains undisclosed, but authorities have classified it as a homicide.
According to a press release from the Sheriff’s Department, a man claiming to have car trouble approached Clifford at his residence and asked for help. When Clifford failed to return home, his worried family members alerted the police. Vining stated on Facebook that her truck was traced to Redington Pass after her father was reported missing.
The Sheriff’s Department reported that the victim was found deceased near a smoldering vehicle. A GoFundMe page set up by Clifford’s family describes him as a “gentle giant” who loved helping and caring for others. Vining expressed her grief and determination to support her mother during this difficult time.
The Sheriff’s Department believes that Clifford’s murder may be connected to a stolen vehicle, although it remains unclear whether the smoldering vehicle found at the scene was Vining’s truck. The department responded to a report of suspicious activity in the early hours of December 24, 2024, and discovered information suggesting a potential link to a stolen vehicle.
The investigation into Clifford’s death remains active, and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department is urging anyone with information to come forward. No details have been released regarding potential suspects or motives.