A South Carolina man was killed after attempting to “show off” with fireworks during a Fourth of July party in Dorchester County.
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Deputies responded to a call about an incident at a block party in Summerville around 10:23 p.m. and found a man lying in the roadway with severe head injuries. According to Yahoo! News, witnesses said the injuries resulted from a fireworks accident. The victim, identified as 41-year-old Allen Ray McGrew, had ignited a large firework on top of his head.
Witnesses also told investigators that McGrew was wearing a large top hat and placed the firework on top before igniting it. McGrew’s wife explained to deputies that she believed her husband was trying to show off at the party. Despite family members’ attempts to stop him, McGrew proceeded with the stunt. The Post and Courier reported that McGrew had been drinking for several hours before the incident.
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“He was holding this firework over his top hat, I thought he was just showboating before he set it on the ground. I didn’t realize he had already lit it.”
His wife also said he was excited that night because his son was recently engaged and wanted to celebrate with friends and family.
“Allen loved this holiday. He was a patriot; he was proud of his son and he was excited to have a new daughter-in-law. He was living his best life last night.”
