The Vancleave, Mississippi community is grieving deeply following the sudden and tragic death of 62-year-old Michael Urbani, who was killed in a devastating hit-and-run accident on the evening of Wednesday, June 25, 2025.
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Details of the Incident
According to the Mississippi Highway Patrol, Urbani was on or near the interstate—either walking or standing by his disabled vehicle—when he was struck by at least one, possibly two vehicles. Both drivers fled the scene, leaving Urbani critically injured by the roadside.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but tragically, Urbani was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries.
Investigation Ongoing
Law enforcement has not yet released detailed descriptions of the suspected vehicles. Officials are reviewing traffic camera footage, dashcams, and surveillance from nearby businesses. They are urging anyone who was traveling along I-10 around the time of the accident to come forward with information or video evidence that might help identify the drivers involved.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol and Jackson County Sheriff’s Department have increased patrols in the area and are asking anyone with tips to contact them at 1-800-642-6369 or Mississippi Crime Stoppers. Anonymous tips are welcome, and rewards may be offered for information leading to an arrest.
Remembering Michael Urbani
Michael Urbani was known in Vancleave as a compassionate, dependable, and kind-hearted man. A retired welder who spent more than three decades working in the shipbuilding industry along the Gulf Coast, Michael was dedicated to his family and loved ones.
He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Linda Urbani, two children, five grandchildren, and countless friends and extended family members.
“He was the type of man who would stop to help a stranger change a tire or offer a cold drink on a hot day,” a neighbor shared. “It’s hard to believe someone could just leave him like that. He didn’t deserve this.”
Community Support and Tribute
The Vancleave community has rallied around Michael’s family in their time of unimaginable grief. A candlelight vigil is planned for this weekend at the Vancleave Community Center, where friends, family, and supporters will gather to honor Michael’s life and legacy.
Linda Urbani expressed her heartbreak, saying, “My husband was everything to me. We had plans, and now they’re all gone. I can’t understand how anyone could leave him like that.”
In addition to the vigil, local residents have organized a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs and provide financial support to Michael’s family as they navigate this painful time.
Calls for Accountability and Road Safety
Michael’s tragic death has sparked renewed discussions about highway safety and the serious consequences of hit-and-run incidents. Community members are calling for stronger enforcement measures, better lighting, and improved protections for pedestrians and stranded motorists along rural highways.
Jackson County Sheriff Mike Ezell emphasized, “We are asking for the public’s help to find those responsible for this tragic loss of life. Someone knows something, and it’s time to come forward.”
Local advocates are also pushing for stricter penalties for drivers who flee accident scenes, especially when fatalities occur, arguing that such crimes must carry severe consequences to deter future incidents.
Honoring Michael’s Memory
As the investigation continues, Michael Urbani’s family and community are left to grapple with a profound sense of loss. Michael’s kindness, generosity, and love for his family will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
His tragic passing, though senseless, has united Vancleave residents in their determination to seek justice and support each other.
Michael’s life reminds us all of the importance of caring for one another and treasuring every moment. Though he is no longer here, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched.