The sports community mourns the untimely death of Tommy Lazzaro, a former standout college quarterback. The 27-year-old tragically lost his life in a hunting accident. Lazzaro, known for his passion on and off the field, leaves behind grieving fans, friends, and family.
Lazzaro’s Football Legacy
Tommy Lazzaro started playing football in high school, where he showcased exceptional talent. His abilities took him to Dodge City Community College, where he gained attention for his leadership and athleticism. He moved to Central Michigan University (CMU) and didn’t take long to shine as a quarterback there.
At Central Michigan, Lazzaro led their team at difficult matches with ferocity. During his time at Central Michigan, Lazzaro played in 20 games and thrived in the second half of the 2019 season, earning the moniker “Touchdown Tommy.”
Over the final five games of his senior year, Lazzaro scored seven rushing touchdowns, two of which came in the 2019 MAC Championship Game.
He ended his career at Central Michigan with 16 touchdowns: 11 on the ground and five through the air.
His adaptability and leadership skills left a lasting impression on teammates and coaches. His on-field credentials helped establish him as a player and mentor for younger athletes.
In 2019, his teammates honored him with the Kurt Dobronski Award, bestowed to a player who “exhibits great effort, intensity, and appreciation for the Chippewa football program.”
Career After Graduation
At the time of his death, the former athlete served in the United States Army, a career he pursued after playing football at Central Michigan from 2016 to 2019.
Following a degree in Entrepreneurship, Lazzaro followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather and joined the United States Army, where he became a sergeant.
In addition, Lazzaro helped organize and carry out three major training concepts across the United States.
Details of the Tragic Accident
Lazzaro was at a hunting site on Eglin Air Force Base in Walton County, Florida, when a hunter’s stray round hit him on Sunday, Dec. 22. He had gone to the range to assist a fellow soldier who was having car trouble, according to Task & Purpose, a military news outlet.
The Community’s Response to the Loss
“We mourn the loss of U.S. Army Sgt. Thomas Lazzaro of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne),” Col. Patrick Nelson, the group’s commander, said in a statement to the outlet.
“We will never forget his dedication, courage, and commitment to safeguarding our freedoms,” Nelson continued.
“His absence leaves a void that will be felt professionally and personally among those who had the honor of working with Thomas,” the commander said. “Our heartfelt condolences extend to his family, friends, and comrades during this difficult time.”
“When we took over the program, Tommy was truly our leader in so many ways,” former head coach Jim McElwain said in a CMU memorial post. “CMU Football was blessed to have him and will always remember him for all he did for many of us. All of the Chippewas will miss him.”
Remembering Tommy Lazzaro’s Legacy
Tommy Lazzaro’s life teaches us to treasure every moment. His athletic achievements and character inspired many during his time as a quarterback. Lazzaro’s memory surely will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
He is survived by his parents, Thomas A. Lazzaro III and Lisa A. Lazzaro, his sister, Lexie Lazzaro, and his fiancée, Kaley Lynch, according to the funeral tribute.
On Saturday, Dec. 28, a celebration of life was held in Fort Walton Beach, Fla. Lazzaro was laid to rest with full military honors, according to WILX.
