Missing Sudbury city councillor found dead at camp near city

The owner of a seasonal camp discovered the remains of Sudbury city councillor Michael Vagnini, Greater Sudbury Police said Tuesday evening.

Vagnini’s body was discovered on Reserve Camp Road in Atikiameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation, near his black Dodge Ram 1500, around 2:30 p.m.

Vagnini, 62, had been missing since Jan. 27, prompting a massive search involving city and provincial police, and many volunteers. Family and friends also held a vigil praying for his safe return.

His remains were discovered Tuesday when the landowner came to the area to check on his property, Det. Sgt. Barry Ornella said.

“Unfortunately it was confirmed Michael Vagnini’s body was located near the vehicle, deceased,” Ornella said.

Ward 2 Coun. Michael Vagnini. April 20/23 (Alana Everson/CTV News Northern Ontario)

Police then called the coroner’s office and notified his family. Foul play is not suspected.

“The circumstances will be best determined through the coroner’s investigation and the post-mortem, which will take place in the coming days and hopefully provide answers to the family in terms of his passing,” he said.

Ornella said investigators will speak to residents in the area to try and determine why Vagnini was there.

'Outpouring of support'

He also thanked the public for their help and support in their efforts to find him.

“I’ve never seen, in my experience, such an outpouring of support,” Ornella said.

“Not only for the family, but the investigation and search as a whole, has been nothing but incredible. Assisting the investigation and assisting the family and taking it upon themselves to do their own search, bringing groups together and searching different areas.

“I think that’s reflective of Mr. Vagnini and who he was to this community. The fact that community members from all corners wanted to find him and help him bring him home to his family.”

While not a happy ending, Ornella said he hoped “this provides closure to the family.”

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