Rhode Island man charged with manslaughter after David Ziegenfuss killed by mortar-style firework

A man has been charged after a Rhode Island man was killed by a firework, according to authorities.

39-year-old David Ziegenfuss of Westerly died after a mortar-style firework was placed on top of his head and set off on May 12th the Providence Journal says.

The death had been ruled as accidental due to a blast injury to the head.

Alcohol appears to have been involved.

According to WJAR 10, 40-year-old Richard Murray of Hopkinton has been charged this month with manslaughter for allegedly lighting the firework that was on Ziegenfuss’ head.

A GoFundMe page states that Ziegenfuss was life flighted from Westerly to Yale-New Haven where he passed. The fundraiser is for end-of-life expenses.

Ziegenfuss was described as 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.”

Murray’s next court appearance is scheduled for October.