RI Man Died After Firework Exploded On His Head: Reports

WESTERLY, RI — A 39-year-old man from Westerly was killed May 12 after a "blast injury" to the head after a firework was placed on his head and set off, according to multiple reports that cite his newly available autopsy report.

The man, identified as David Ziegenfuss, died by accident, Westerly Police Chief Paul Gingerella told the Providence Journal, adding that those involved were drinking alcohol and "messing around" at a home on Pound Road when tragedy struck.

"He was life-flighted from Westerly to Yale-New Haven where he passed," Ziegenfuss's brother Shawn Altman wrote in the description of a GoFundMe set up to help with end-of-life expenses for Ziegenfuss. "Dave was an adoring father to his son Logan, a fun uncle, a listening ear, and a caring shoulder. He was very loved by his family and his friends."

The fundraiser has raised $2,865 of its $5,000 goal since it was established on May 16.

"If there is any surplus, it would be set into a bank account in his son, Logan’s name to help him establish himself in the future," Altman continued. "We appreciate your donations big or small. Can't donate, please share. Thank you."

The type of firework used in the accident — a mortar (or tube-shaped) firework — is illegal to use in Rhode Island and resulted in the majority of fireworks-related deaths in 2022, according to the 2023 US Consumer Product Safety Commission Fireworks Annual Report.

Only ground-based fireworks such as sparklers are legal in Rhode Island, WPRI noted.