WAREHAM, Mass. — A 70-year-old man was killed in a tragic fireworks accident in Wareham on the Fourth of July, according to authorities.
The Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office identified the victim as Robert Spagnuolo, who died Friday night while setting off fireworks at a beach near 34 Beach Street.
Emergency crews responded to a 911 call at approximately 9:19 p.m. reporting that a person had been injured by fireworks. When Wareham Police arrived on the scene, they found Spagnuolo with a severe facial injury. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to investigators, Spagnuolo was setting off fireworks when one exploded unexpectedly, causing fatal injuries. Several witnesses were interviewed at the scene to help authorities understand what happened.
The Massachusetts State Police, Wareham Police, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, and the State Police bomb squad are all involved in the ongoing investigation. The state’s Chief Medical Examiner will conduct an autopsy to officially determine the cause and manner of death.
This incident underscores the dangers of handling fireworks, especially without proper safety measures. As the investigation continues, officials are reminding the public about the risks associated with personal fireworks use, particularly during holiday celebrations.
Authorities have not released further details and are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact local law enforcement.
