On a tragic Fourth of July, Allen Ray McGrew, who celebrated the holiday by dressing as Uncle Sam, died after a firework he placed on his head exploded. In his final moments, he expressed heartfelt sentiments to his family, telling his wife Paige and son Hunter, “You are my rock, and you are my heart.” The heart-wrenching event took place in Summerville, South California, where local authorities were summoned to the scene at around 10:30 pm.
The 41-year-old’s celebration turned fatal when, according to his wife Paige, he unexpectedly set off the firework that was thought to be merely part of his showboating. “I thought he was just showboating before he set it on the ground,” she recounted to The Post and Courier, “but he had already lit it.” Despite warnings from others, the firework detonated, leading to his immediate collapse and death, confirmed by Dorchester County Sheriff’s department at 11:10 pm.
The coroners reported that McGrew died from “massive head injuries.” In the wake of this accident, his family has spoken out about the incident and the unfair criticism McGrew has faced. His 20-year-old son Hunter told The New York Post, “We’re traumatized.”
The family has been defending McGrew’s character, emphasizing that he was not a “drunken fool,” but a man filled with patriotism and joy. “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,” Paige explained. She detailed the poignant last moments together where Allen embraced his family and shared his feelings.
According to Paige, the party involved some drinking, but she clarified that Allen wasn’t a regular drinker. She highlighted that the Fourth of July celebration was also meant to honor their son Hunter’s engagement and upcoming wedding, making this last occasion even more significant for Allen.
The sudden and devastating loss of Allen McGrew serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of fireworks, a staple yet hazardous part of Independence Day celebrations. The incident has left his family grieving and defending his memory amidst a negative backlash from the community.
The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office and the Dorchester County Coroner’s Office have been contacted for further comments on the incident.