Sal Vackaro was a 19-year-old freshman at Michigan State University who was killed in a hit-and-run accident on Friday night, November 3, 2023. He was a recent graduate of Oxford High School in Michigan, where he was a soccer player, a robotics enthusiast, and a Marvel fan. He was known for his humour, kindness, and individuality.
According to the police, the accident occurred around 11:30 p.m. near the intersection of Farm Lane and Shaw Lane on the MSU campus. Vaccaro was walking on the curb with two other people when he was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. The other two pedestrians were not injured.
The police are looking for three vehicles that may have been involved in the incident: a dark-coloured sedan, a light-coloured SUV, and a red pickup truck. Anyone with information is urged to call the MSU Police Department at (517) 355-2221 or submit an anonymous tip online.
The news of Vackaro’s death has shocked and saddened the communities that knew him best. His family, friends, classmates, teachers, and coaches have expressed their grief and condolences on social media and in person.
Stacey Beane shared a post on Twitter:
A candlelight vigil was held on Saturday night at the Oxford High School soccer field, where hundreds of people gathered to pay their respects and share their memories of Vackaro. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help his family with funeral expenses and has raised over $50,000 so far.
The MSU community has also shown its support and solidarity with Vackaro’s family and friends. The university has offered counselling and other resources to students and staff who are affected by the tragedy.
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The MSU President, Samuel L. Stanley Jr., stated on Sunday, expressing his sorrow and outrage over the incident and urging anyone with information to come forward. He also called for a moment of silence before the MSU football game against Michigan on Saturday, November 11, 2023, to honour Vackaro’s life.
Sal Vackaro was a young man with a bright future and a loving heart. He was taken away too soon by a senseless act of violence that has left a void in the lives of many. His death is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
His legacy will live on in the memories and hearts of those who knew him and loved him. He will be dearly missed and never forgotten. Rest in peace, Sal.