Tommy Lazzaro, a former Central Michigan quarterback, tragically passed away in a hunting accident.

He was 27.

Lazzaro was also a sergeant in the United States Army.

“Sgt. Thomas Lazzaro, with 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), died after being hit by a stray round,” Task & Purpose, an outlet focusing on U.S. military news, stated.

Lazzaro died Sunday, December 22nd, at Eglin Air Force Base.

From Task & Purpose:

The bullet was fired by a hunter who was shooting on the Eglin range, a popular hunting location. A spokesperson for 7th Special Forces Group confirmed his identity and death. He was 27.

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According to the spokesperson, Lazzaro was driving to the range to help a fellow soldier who was having car trouble. The Walton County Sheriff’s Office, which arrived on the scene on Sunday, described the incident as a “tragic hunting accident.” All parties were cooperating with authorities.

“We deeply mourn the loss of U.S. Army Sgt. Thomas Lazzaro of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne),” Col. Patrick Nelson, 7th SFG(A) commander, said in a statement. “We will never forget his dedication, courage, and commitment to safeguarding our freedoms. His absence leaves a void that will be felt professionally and personally among those who had the honor of working with Thomas. Our heartfelt condolences extend to his family, friends, and comrades during this difficult time.

Fox News reports:

Central Michigan also released a statement mourning the loss of the former Chippewas quarterback.

“When we took over the program, Tommy was truly our leader in so many ways,” former head coach Jim McElwain said in a statement provided by the school. “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 four years at Central Michigan, where he had five starts from 2016-2019. During the 2019 season, he led the Chippewas to a 6-2 record in conference play and bowl appearance. He finished his career at Central Michigan with 542 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns and 758 passing yards and five touchdowns.

According to Central Michigan, Lazzaro graduated with a degree in entrepreneurship in 2019 and joined the Army to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.

 

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