A tragic incident during a holiday hunting expedition claims the life of a former college football standout who had transitioned to military service.
According to Daily Mail, Tommy Lazzaro, the former Central Michigan Chippewas quarterback known as "Touchdown Tommy," died at age 27 in what authorities described as a tragic hunting accident at Eglin Air Force Base in Destin, Florida, on December 22.
The Colorado native, who had achieved the rank of sergeant after enlisting in the Army following his college career, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to local law enforcement. The Walton County Sheriff's Office is handling the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Jim McElwain, Lazzaro's former coach at Central Michigan, expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of a player who had been instrumental to the team's success.
McElwain emphasized Lazzaro's leadership qualities and the lasting impact he had on the program during their time together.
Former CMU athletic director Michael Alford spoke warmly of Lazzaro's character, describing him as someone who consistently demonstrated care for others. His sentiment echoed the widespread grief felt throughout the Central Michigan community.
The quarterback's contributions to the Chippewas program included helping lead the team to the MAC Championship Game in 2019, when they finished with an 8-6 record.
During his collegiate career, Lazzaro appeared in 20 games, accumulating 758 passing yards and five touchdowns through the air, while adding 542 rushing yards and 11 ground scores.
Before his passing, Lazzaro had reflected on his time at Central Michigan, sharing his deep appreciation for the opportunities and relationships he had developed. In a 2019 interview with the student newspaper CM Life, he expressed:
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
His journey extended beyond the football field as he pursued military service after graduating with a degree in entrepreneurship. The transition from college athlete to Army sergeant demonstrated his continued commitment to leadership and service.
Lazzaro's impact was felt both on and off the field, where he earned his nickname "Touchdown Tommy" through his dual-threat capabilities as a quarterback. His versatility as a player and his dedication to both his team and country left an indelible mark on those who knew him.
Tommy Lazzaro, at just 27 years old, left behind a legacy that spanned both athletic achievement and military service. The former Central Michigan quarterback died in a hunting accident at Eglin Air Force Base, where he had been pursuing one of his recreational interests.
His journey from college football star to Army sergeant exemplified his commitment to leadership and service, touching lives across both the sports and military communities. The investigation into the tragic hunting accident continues as the Central Michigan community mourns the loss of one of its most memorable players.
