JACKSON COUNTY, MS — Community Grieves the Tragic Loss of Michael Urbani in Fatal Hit-and-Run on I-10
A wave of heartbreak and outrage has swept through the Jackson County community following a tragic hit-and-run collision that claimed the life of 62-year-old Michael Urbani of Vancleave on the evening of Wednesday, June 25, 2025. The fatal incident occurred around 8:48 p.m. on Interstate 10 westbound, between mile markers 68 and 69, and has since prompted an active investigation and a public appeal for information.
According to the Mississippi Highway Patrol, Michael Urbani was struck and killed in what officials are describing as a multi-vehicle hit-and-run. Investigators believe that two separate vehicles were involved in the fatal collision and that both fled the scene without stopping to render aid. Urbani, who was either walking or standing outside his vehicle when the crash occurred, was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.
As troopers, deputies, and crash reconstruction teams work tirelessly to piece together what happened, the Mississippi Highway Patrol is urging anyone with dashcam footage, witness testimony, or any form of information about the incident or the vehicles involved to come forward.
“This is a heartbreaking and senseless loss of life,” said MHP Troop K spokesperson Lt. James Evans. “Michael Urbani was left behind on the side of the road by individuals who chose to run rather than take responsibility. We will not stop until justice is served.”
The loss of Urbani has cast a long shadow over the Vancleave community, where he was known as a devoted father, neighbor, and longtime resident. Friends and loved ones describe him as a man of quiet strength, generosity, and deep loyalty to those he cared about. His passing has left a gaping hole in the lives of many who relied on his warm presence and steady support.
“Michael was the kind of person who would drop everything to help you,” shared a friend from the local VFW post, where Urbani was an active member. “He didn’t deserve to die this way. And the fact that someone just drove off—twice—is absolutely devastating.”
As the investigation continues, the Mississippi Department of Transportation temporarily closed down the section of I-10 where the crash occurred to allow for forensic teams to examine the scene. Authorities say several pieces of evidence were recovered, including vehicle debris believed to belong to the two cars involved. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras is also being reviewed in hopes of identifying the suspects.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and the District Attorney’s Office are assisting MHP with the investigation. Law enforcement officials confirmed that criminal charges, including vehicular manslaughter and leaving the scene of a fatal crash, will be pursued once the individuals responsible are located.
“We want Michael’s family to know they are not alone,” said Sheriff John Ledbetter. “We will stand with them every step of the way, and we will not stop until those responsible are held accountable.”
Michael Urbani is survived by his two children, a daughter and son, and three grandchildren. The family has asked for privacy but expressed their gratitude to the community for the overwhelming support and sympathy they’ve received in the wake of this tragedy.
A candlelight vigil is being planned near the Vancleave Community Center this coming Saturday to honor Michael’s memory and call for justice. Organizers hope it will serve as both a moment of healing and a powerful reminder that hit-and-run fatalities are not just statistics—they are deeply personal losses with lasting pain.
Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact the Mississippi Highway Patrol Troop K at (228) 396-7400 or submit tips anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898.
As Jackson County mourns the life of a man taken too soon and in such a violent, preventable manner, the call for justice grows louder. Michael Urbani will be remembered not for the way his life ended, but for the kindness, quiet strength, and love he gave during his time on earth.