Heartbreak in Destin Tommy Lazzaro’s Legacy Lives On After Tragic Accident

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The sports community is mourning the tragic loss of Tommy Lazzaro, former Central Michigan University quarterback, who passed away in a hunting accident on December 22 at just 27 years old. The accident occurred at Eglin Air Force Base in Destin, Florida, where he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Known as “Touchdown Tommy,” Lazzaro was a key player for the Chippewas from 2018 to 2019. His leadership and athleticism shone brightly, helping CMU reach the MAC Championship Game in 2019. Over his college career, Lazzaro threw for 758 yards and five touchdowns while rushing for 542 yards and 11 scores.

But Lazzaro’s impact wasn’t limited to the football field. A graduate with a degree in entrepreneurship, he pursued a life of service after college by enlisting in the U.S. Army, where he quickly rose to the rank of sergeant.

Heartbreaking news for the CMU football community:

Former QB Tommy Lazzaro has passed away.

He was a key part in CMU’s 2019 turnaround year that led them to the MAC title game, where he scored 2 TD’s.

Here’s his obituary: https://t.co/zizH7AbhsY

RIP Tommy 🕊️ #FireUpForever pic.twitter.com/C7nMFV4bO3

— Adam Jaksa (@AdamJaksa) December 25, 2024

Former CMU coach Jim McElwain reflected on his lasting impact: “Tommy was truly a leader in every sense of the word. CMU Football was blessed to have him.”

Michael Alford, CMU’s former athletic director, echoed these sentiments, calling Lazzaro “a great soul” and someone who genuinely cared about others.

Lazzaro once spoke fondly about his time at CMU, saying, “This place gave me a home, an education, and friendships I’ll cherish forever.”

As fans, teammates, and friends remember Tommy Lazzaro, his legacy of leadership, kindness, and resilience will live on. Rest in peace, Touchdown Tommy—you will be deeply missed.