On Dec. 24, 2024, at approximately 1:20 a.m., deputies from Pima County Sheriff’s Department were called to a report of suspicious activity in the 14000 block of N. San Pedro River Rd. While enroute to the incident location, deputies discovered information which led them to believe the incident was potentially related to a stolen vehicle. Deputies began efforts to locate all parties involved.
The victim of this incident, identified as Paul Cifford, 53, was later found deceased near a smoldering vehicle in the area of Redington Pass Road and San Pedro River Road. Mr. Clifford was recently hired as a teacher at the Mammoth-San Manuel School District.
Detectives from the PCSD Homicide Unit, Arson/Auto Theft Unit and Robbery/Assault Team responded to investigate. According to PCSD, the victim was approached at his home by a male subject who claimed to be experiencing car trouble and requested assistance. When the victim did not return home, concerned family members contacted law enforcement.
The stolen vehicle was later located at an apartment complex near Prince and Roger roads in Tucson.
This case remains under investigation and no arrests have been made.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to call 9-1-1 or contact 88-CRIME.
Julie Dale-Scott, Superintendent of the Mammoth-San Manuel School District, offered the following statement: “Mr. Clifford was quick to help the community school with a Physical Education position that opened mid-year. The gentle giant had quickly made relationships with the students and staff of Mammoth-San Manuel and his tragic death has certainly impacted us all. Two of his daughters are also teachers of our district so the pain of this heinous crime is far reaching and impactful as we attempt to support and comfort the Clifford family.”