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

Gensis: Pathways to Success Announces 2026 Summer Interns

Pictured: Owen Eldridge, Renee’ Lecher, Kate Weber, and Josie Wolfe.

Batesville Freshman's Work in BCEF’S Art on Main

The BHS mural will be on display until the fall, when a new art series will begin for the 2026-27 school year.

One Dearborn 2025 Annual Report Highlights a Year of Growth for Dearborn County

The report showcases two major business attraction wins, continued progress on Stellar Pathways and READI 2.0 projects, and organizational growth that positions the county for a strong 2026 and beyond.

Local Sports Report - May 14, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

On Air

Eagle Country 99.3 playing
K.T. Oslin - 80s Ladies

Jason Aldean and Miranda Lambert Drowns The Whiskey 12:43
Clint Black One More Payment 12:41
Ashley Cooke Your Place 12:38
Luke Bryan Crash My Party 12:34