Florence Man Killed in Fireworks Accident

The incident took place at a home on Melinda Lane.

Shutterstock photo. 

(Florence, Ky.) – Boone County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a fatal fireworks accident on the Fourth of July.

The incident took place around 10:26 p.m. at a home on Melinda Lane.

Deputies say Brian Simpson, 48, of Florence, was attempting to light a commercial grade firework by means of a homemade mortar tube at the time of the accident.

The firework was designed for electronic detonation as they are instant ignition, however, Simpson had cut the wick in half. As the firework was lit it immediately exploded causing the fatal injuries.

The Boone County Sheriff’s Office is handling the investigation and was assisted at the scene by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms & Explosives (ATF), the Florence Fire Department Investigation Team, and the Boone County Coroner’s Office.

More from Local News

Events

SIEOC Executive Director Announces Retirement

A retirement celebration for Tammy Cunningham will be held on March 12.

Tri-Champions Highlight ORVC Girls Basketball All-Conference Team

Fourteen players earned all-conference honors.

Local Sports Report - February 10, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

Batesville's Hughes Named IBCA District 3 Player of the Week

Jennings County's girls basketball team was also honored.

On Air

Rick Bernius playing
Aaron Tippin - Kiss This

Janie Fricke Do Me With Love 14:17
Brett Eldredge Lose My Mind 14:14
Chris Young Looking for You 14:09
Montgomery Gentry My Town Eagle ONLY NO INTRO IMAGING 14:05