Greenville County, South Carolina – A man suspected of murdering a woman in Travelers Rest has died in a local hospital, according to the Greenville County Coroner’s Office. The man, identified as 39-year-old Michael Robert Clarkson from Florida, was found hanging in his cell at the Greenville County Detention Center on Friday. He was taken to Prisma Health Greenville Hospital where he passed away on Saturday.
Authorities reported that Clarkson was arrested on Tuesday after a search at one of his businesses on New Easley Highway uncovered evidence related to a death investigation on Velo Way. The incident in question involved the discovery of 40-year-old Colleen D’Ortona’s body in her home on May 28th. Due to his domestic relationship with the victim, Clarkson was identified as a person of interest in the case.
During a court appearance on Wednesday morning, a judge stated that Clarkson could not be given bond due to the nature of the homicide being considered a capital offense. Additionally, 38-year-old Cherith Crown, accused of being an accessory after the fact of murder and obstructing justice, was also denied bond.
An autopsy for Michael Robert Clarkson has been scheduled for Monday, with the cause and manner of his death pending investigation. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division are continuing to evaluate the case.
The death of Clarkson has left authorities in the area grappling with the aftermath of the murder investigation, shedding light on the complexities of domestic violence cases. As the community mourns the loss of both the victim and the suspect, questions linger about the circumstances surrounding the tragic events that unfolded in Travelers Rest.
The impact of this incident extends beyond the individuals directly involved, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to address issues related to domestic violence and homicide in the community. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the case to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation to bring closure to the victims’ families and ensure justice is served.