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Former Central Michigan University quarterback Tommy Lazzaro, who went on to enlist in the United States Army, was killed Dec. 22 at age 27 in a hunting accident, a military spokesperson confirmed.
In Memoriam: Everyone We Lost in 2024
A college football star and military sergeant’s life has been tragically cut short.
Tommy Lazzaro, a former quarterback for the Central Michigan Chippewas who went on to serve in the United States Army, died Dec. 22 in a hunting accident, a spokesperson for 7th Special Forces Group confirmed to military news outlet Task & Purpose. He was 27.
Lazzaro was driving to a shooting range to assist a fellow soldier at Eglin Air Force Base when he was struck on the range with a stray bullet, according to the spokesperson.
“We will never forget his dedication, courage and commitment to safeguarding our freedoms,” Col. Patrick Nelson said in a statement to the outlet. “His absence leaves a void that will be felt professionally and personally among those who had the honor of working with Thomas.”
Prior to his service, Lazzaro played for the Chippewas from 2016 to 2019, and was selected by his teammates to receive the prestigious Kurt Dobronski Award during his senior year, according to Central Michigan University.
“When we took over the program, Tommy was truly our leader in so many ways,” his former head coach, Jim McElwain, told the university. “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.”
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After graduating from Central Michigan University with a degree in entrepreneurship in 2019, Lazzaro followed in his father and grandfather’s footsteps and enlisted in the armed forces, according to the school.
Lazzaro is survived by his parents, Thomas A. Lazzaro III and Lisa A. Lazzaro, as well as his sister, Lexie Lazzaro, and his fiancée, Kayley Lynch, according to his obituary. He is set to be laid to rest Dec. 28 with full military accolades for his service, per CMU.
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