Former Central Michigan University quarterback, Tommy Lazzaro, known to fans as “Touchdown Tommy,” tragically lost his life in a hunting accident at an Air Force base in Florida. The university confirmed the incident, which occurred on Sunday, stating that Lazzaro was 27 years old at the time of his death.
Lazzaro was a key player for the Central Michigan football team from 2016 to 2019, contributing significantly to the team’s appearance in the MAC title game in 2019. After his graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.
The unfortunate incident took place at the Eglin range at the Eglin Air Force Base in Freeport, Florida. Lazzaro, a member of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, was hit by a stray bullet fired by a hunter. At the time, he was on his way to assist a fellow soldier who was experiencing car trouble, according to a spokesperson for the 7th Special Forces Group.
The incident drew a swift response from multiple agencies, including the Walton County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The event has been characterized as a “tragic hunting accident.”
During his tenure at Central Michigan, Lazzaro played in 20 games, starting five of them. He completed 72 passes for 758 yards and five touchdowns, and rushed for 542 yards and 11 touchdowns on 133 attempts. Before joining Central Michigan, he played a year at Dodge City Community College, where he achieved 2,237 yards and 14 touchdowns, helping the team to a 9-3 record.
Jim McElwain, the head coach who took over the program in 2019, remembered Lazzaro as a leader. He expressed that the football program was fortunate to have him and that his absence would be deeply felt.
At the time of his death, Lazzaro had reached the rank of sergeant in the military. His dedication and commitment were praised by Col. Patrick Nelson, 7th SFG(A) commander, who extended condolences to Lazzaro’s family, friends, and comrades.
A memorial service for Lazzaro is scheduled to take place in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, on Saturday.