Three individuals were arrested this week in connection with the death of Paul Clifford, a good Samaritan, in Arizona. The Pima County Sheriff's Department identified two of the suspects as Jack Upchurch, 40, and Elmer Smith, 19. The third suspect is a 16-year-old whose identity has not been disclosed due to their age. Clifford, 53, was found dead near a smoldering car northeast of Tucson last month.

Clifford disappeared on December 23 after leaving his home late at night to assist a stranger with a stranded vehicle. His daughter, Sabrina Vining, confirmed this in an online fundraiser, stating that a man had knocked on Clifford's door seeking help. Clifford was reported missing by his family, and his body was discovered shortly thereafter. The sheriff's department has not yet disclosed the cause or manner of his death.

On Monday, authorities received a tip about the suspects' whereabouts. Detectives, with the assistance of the Pima Regional SWAT team, executed a search warrant at a property where the suspects had barricaded themselves. They eventually called 911 to negotiate their surrender and were taken into custody.

The suspects are being held at the Pima County Adult Detention Center on felony arrest warrants. Upchurch's bond is $1 million, Smith's is $1.025 million, and the minor's is $500,000. It is unclear if they have legal representation.

Vining expressed relief over the arrests in a Facebook post, thanking law enforcement for their efforts. The investigation is ongoing, and the sheriff's department has not released information regarding a motive or how the suspects were linked to Clifford's death.

Gary and Shannon

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