Former Central Michigan University quarterback Tommy Lazzaro died on Sunday, December 22, after an apparent hunting accident in Florida. He was 27 years old.
Lazzaro’s death was confirmed by the school on Thursday, December 26.
“Several reports indicated that he passed away from a hunting accident,” the university said, indicating the incident happened in Destin, Florida.
According to WILX-10, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed the accident happened at the Eglin Air Force Base in Walton County, Florida. The Walton County Sheriff’s Office said all involved parties remained on the scene and were cooperating with the investigation.
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The former athlete was serving as a member of the United States Army at the time of his death, a career path he chose after playing football at Central Michigan from 2016 to 2019.
“When we took over the program, Tommy was truly our leader in so many ways,” former Central Michigan head coach Jim McElwain said in a statement. “CMU Football was blessed to have him and will always remember him for all he did for many of us. He will be missed by all of the Chippewas.”
Lazzaro played in 20 games during his career at Central Michigan, flourishing in the second half of the 2019 season when he earned the nickname “Touchdown Tommy.”
In the last 5 games of his senior season, Lazzaro scored seven rushing touchdowns, including two in the 2019 MAC Championship Game.
He finished his career at Central Michigan with 16 touchdowns — 11 rushing and 5 passing.
“He was a great soul,” former CMU athletic director Michael Alford told The Detroit News. “Couldn’t have met a better person who cared about others.”
In 2019, Lazzaro gushed about his experience at the university, both on and off the field.
“This place has given me a home, an education, a place to meet some of my best friends ― guys I’ll know for the rest of my life,” he told student newspaper CM Life.
After graduating with a degree in Entrepreneurship, Lazzaro followed the lead of his father and grandfather and enlisted in the United States Army, ultimately rising to the rank of sergeant.
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A celebration of life for Lazzaro will be held on Saturday, December 28, at Emerald Coast Funeral Home in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Lazzaro will then be buried with full military honors.
According to his obituary, Lazzaro’s “dedication to his military career was evident in the professionalism and pride he brought to his role.”
“His service was marked by bravery and a commitment to protecting others, earning him the respect and admiration of his peers,” the obituary continued. “Beyond his military accomplishments, Thomas was known for his compassionate and jovial spirit, a personality that brought light and joy to everyone around him.”
Lazzaro is survived by his parents, Tom and Lisa, and sister, Lexie.
