On December 24, 2024, Paul Clifford, a 53-year-old resident of Pima County, Arizona, was found deceased near a smoldering vehicle on a rugged dirt road close to Redington Pass and San Pedro River roads. Earlier that morning, around 1:20 a.m., a suspect had arrived at Clifford’s home seeking assistance with a car. When Clifford failed to return home, his family reported him missing to the authorities.
On December 30, homicide detectives from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department arrested three individuals in connection with Clifford’s death: Elmer Smith, 19; Jack Upchurch, 40; and Wendy Scott, 16. The suspects had barricaded themselves inside a residence but eventually surrendered after contacting 911 to negotiate. All three were taken into custody without further incident.
The suspects are facing felony charges; however, specific details regarding the charges have not been disclosed by investigators.
This tragic incident underscores the potential dangers faced by individuals attempting to assist others, even with the best intentions. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to uncover further details surrounding the case.