Founder of clothing brand Salt Life faces manslaughter charges in death of young woman in Florida

PHOTO CREDITS: NEWSNATION NOW

A founder of the clothing brand Salt Life is facing manslaughter charges in the death of an 18-year-old woman in Florida, according to ABC.

Michael Troy Hutto, 54, was being held at the Duval County jail in Jacksonville on Sunday. His arrest was in connection with the death of Lora Grace Duncan, 18, whose body was found Thursday at a Palm Beach County hotel. Police say she was shot, though no other details have been released. 

Hutto was arrested Friday in his hometown of Jacksonville, about 280 miles from the hotel, the Florida Highway Patrol said. Investigators have not said how they believe Hutto is connected to Duncan’s death or if they had a relationship. Duncan was from Lake City, a town 60 miles west of Jacksonville.

Hutto and some friends started Salt Life in 2003, its brand aimed at boaters, surfers and fishermen who spend time on the ocean. Hutto is credited with coming up with the name. The company issued a statement saying Hutto has not been involved with the company since he and his partners sold the business in 2013 for almost $40 million. Jail records do not show if Hutto has an attorney. He will be transferred to Palm Beach County, where he will face an initial court hearing and more details will be released. 

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR: CONNOR KMIECIK

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