The Central Michigan football community is mourning the loss of Tommy Lazzaro, a former quarterback who died at 27 in a hunting accident at a military base in Florida, according to multiple reports.
Lazzaro, who was a sergeant in the U.S. Army, died suddenly on Dec. 22 in Destin, Florida, according to Central Michigan, where he went to school and played football.
The former quarterback joined the Army after graduating from Central Michigan and became a sergeant in the 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group. His father and grandfather also served in the military, according to the university.
Lazzaro was killed by a stray bullet from a hunter on Dec. 22 at Eglin Air Force Base in the western Panhandle, according to Task & Purpose. The base includes a popular hunting range, the military publication noted.
Lazzaro had driven to the range to help a soldier who was having car trouble when he was struck by the bullet, a military spokesperson told Task & Purpose. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed the incident to NBC affiliate WOOD in central Michigan.
“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 to Task & Purpose.
“We will never forget his dedication, courage, and commitment to safeguarding our freedoms,” he continued. “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.”
Lazzaro was engaged to be married to fiancée Kaley Lynch, according to his obituary.
Lazzaro played in 20 games for Central Michigan, starting five of them, between 2016-19, according to the school. He ran for 542 career yards and 11 touchdowns and threw for 758 yards and five touchdowns. Lazzaro was part of the Chippewas team that reached the Mid-American Conference championship game in 2019.
“When we took over the program, Tommy was truly our leader in so many ways,” his former head coach, Jim McElwain, said in a statement through 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.”