TUCSON, Ariz. (KOLD/Gray News) – An investigation is underway after a man, who authorities believe had gone to help a stranger with car troubles, was found dead.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department said the body of 53-year-old Paul Clifford was found near a smoldering vehicle in the early morning hours of Dec. 24.
Detectives believe Clifford was approached at his residence by a man who claimed to be experiencing car trouble and requested assistance.
Sabrina Vining, who said in a Facebook post that Clifford is her father, believes he went missing at about 11:30 p.m. on Dec. 23.
She claimed he had taken her truck to help someone jump-start their car.
When he didn’t return home, concerned family members contacted law enforcement.
Deputies later responded to a report of suspicious activity in the 14000 block of North San Pedro River Road just after 1 a.m.
There they found information that led them to believe the incident was potentially related to a stolen vehicle.
The sheriff’s department said Clifford was then found dead in the area of Redington Pass Road and San Pedro River Road, a rugged dirt road miles from homes.
“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 two-wheel vehicle but it’s going to be very slow going,” deputy Adam Schoonover said.
Deputies subsequently located the stolen vehicle at an apartment complex.
The sheriff’s department couldn’t say whether this remains an active threat.
“I don’t think that there’s anything that says this is ongoing,” Schoonover said, “but with this type of incident you never really know and so it’s always good to be on guard. 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.”
The investigation remains active and no arrests have been made. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to call 911 or 88-CRIME.
Clifford’s family has started a GoFundMe to help with the expenses.
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