We've learned the tragic reason why a major highway was closed in Upstate New York.

The incident happened in Albany on Tuesday around 10:43 p.m.

I-787 Northbound Closed In Albany, New York

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On Tuesday around 10:45 a.m., New York State Police took to X to warn about a traffic alert in Albany.


The highway was closed because someone jumped from the I-90 overpass onto the northbound lanes of I-787.

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The man was later identified as Michael Matteo.

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Matteo was charged with grand larceny in late 2023. In 2024, he confessed to scamming out of $138,000. He admitted to taking the money for a renovation project but never finishing the job.

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He resigned from his position with the Albany Water Department in July 2023. A few weeks later, an investigation into his crime began.

Due In Court Day Of Suicide

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On the day of his death, April 23, Matteo was due in court to be sentenced, according to CBS 6 Albany. He was told he'd avoid jail time if he could pay the couple back by April 23.

If he couldn't pay the couple back in full, it was expected he'd receive a 7 year prison sentence.

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The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you or someone you know needs help you can call or text 988 24 hours a day.

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If you are in doubt of reaching out, this might be your sign to just do it.

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