South Carolina dad, 41, dies after putting lit firework on his head to 'show off'

A father has died after igniting a large firework on his head during the July 4 celebrations.

Allen Ray McGrew had been celebrating the 4th of July at a neighborhood block party in Summerville, Dorchester County.

Footage shared online shows the 41-year-old, from South Carolina, donning a stars and stripes Uncle Sam outfit, and dancing as he celebrated the holiday.

The festive mood suddenly turned tragic when Allen - who was intoxicated - started to "show off" by holding a firework "over his top hat" at around 10.30PM, his wife Paige McGrew told The Post and Courier.

Speaking to the outlet, Paige revealed: "I thought he was just showboating before he set it on the ground. I didn’t realize he had already lit it."

Paige told Allen to stop when the exploding device suddenly burst and he fell on the ground, according to the police report obtained by WCBD.

The man was found lying dead on the road by deputies who rushed to the scene after the party came to an abrupt end. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 11.10PM.

Coroner Paul Brouthers revealed the firework caused massive head injuries that would have ended Allen's life immediately.

Paige shared that her husband loved Independence Day, adding: "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."

The grieving wife recalled how Allen had gone all out for the special occasion by wearing a costume as well as a fake white beard. 

She also remembered him appearing at her office in the full outfit, saying: "I was on the phone with a client and I just lost it, I was laughing so hard.

"I had to tell her what was going on. That was Allen. He was a genuine, good person and he loved life. He worked hard and he played hard," she said.

Allen was remembered as a patriot who loved the 4th of July. Credit: Tatiana Sviridova / Getty

A few neighbors who spoke to the Post and Courier remembered Allen as a kind man who was always willing to help others.

One person told the outlet that Wednesday had been the first time he mowed his lawn because Allen would usually take it upon himself to do it. 

Another neighbor added: "He was the nicest guy. He was the kind of guy you want for a neighbor."

The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office and Dorchester County Coroner’s Office are investigating the incident. 

Our thoughts are with Allen's family and friends at this time.

Featured image credit: The Washington Post / Getty