WPRI 12 News

Police: Westerly man died after firework was set off on his head

By Shaun Towne,

22 days ago

WESTERLY, R.I. (WPRI) — Westerly police continue to investigate a fireworks-related death that occurred earlier this year.

According to Chief Paul Gingerella, the cause of 39-year-old David Ziegenfuss’s death on May 12 was determined to be a “blast injury” to the head.

Gingerella said it appeared that Ziegenfuss and others were messing around with fireworks at a home on Pound Road when a mortar-style firework was put on his head and set off.

That type of firework is illegal in Rhode Island , the chief noted. However, Gingerella said the manner of his death has been deemed accidental.

The incident remains under investigation.

While ground-based fireworks such as sparklers are legal in Rhode Island , public safety officials strongly advise leaving the fireworks to professionals.

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Police: Westerly man died after firework was set off on his head

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