DNA match helps investigators identify burned body in Burton
A DNA match has led investigators to identify the remains found in a burned car Saturday as those of 49-year-old Clifford Lamont Jenkins.
The Sheriff’s Office has ruled his death a homicide but Jenkins’ cause or time of death was not released, Jenkins had been missing since July. He was last seen driving a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze, and investigators said the body style and a recovered emblem of the burnt car may be a match to his vehicle.
Deputies arrived at the scene at approximately 4:20 p.m., Saturday in a wooded area near the intersection of Ramblin and Ramsey Roads in Burton - about a half-mile north of Beaufort’s Walmart.
Viens said the car was not on fire when deputies arrived and appeared to have been parked in the woods for a few days or longer. A few days prior to the discovery of the vehicle and Jenkins’ body, he was reported missing.
Anyone who may have information related to Clifford Jenkins’ death is encouraged to contact Sgt. J. Snider at 843-255-3421, Cpl. L. Harris at 843-255-3436, or if wishing to remain anonymous and for a possible reward, Crime Stoppers of the Lowcountry at 843-554-1111.
This story was originally published August 11, 2023 at 12:28 PM.
