Monroe County man tragically loses life in fireworks accident during Saturday night holiday celebration

Stinesville, Indiana – A Fourth of July weekend celebration turned tragic Saturday night in rural Monroe County, where a 23-year-old man died after a fireworks mishap, authorities confirmed.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies responded to an emergency call around 10:30 p.m. in the 7000 block of W. Tabor Hill Road, just northwest of Stinesville. When they arrived, they found Tyler Pinkley with traumatic injuries reportedly caused while he was handling fireworks.

According to a news release, Pinkley had been attempting a risky stunt with the fireworks, despite efforts by his friends to stop him. Authorities said his friends were present during the incident and tried to intervene, but were unable to prevent the fatal act.

“Initial investigation suggests the incident was accidental,” the sheriff’s office stated.

The Monroe County Coroner’s Office pronounced Pinkley dead at the scene. No additional injuries were reported, and officials have not released details about the type of firework involved.

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Fireworks-related fatalities are rare but tend to spike around Independence Day. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 11 people died from fireworks-related injuries in 2024 alone. Most of those deaths involved either misused or malfunctioning fireworks.

The sheriff’s department is continuing its investigation, but at this time, there is no indication that foul play or criminal behavior contributed to the incident.

Pinkley’s death has shaken the small community near Stinesville. Neighbors and friends, many of whom had gathered to enjoy the holiday together, were left stunned.

“He was full of energy and always trying to make people laugh,” said one friend who asked not to be named. “It’s hard to believe he’s just gone.”

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Authorities are urging the public to follow all safety instructions when handling fireworks and to avoid risky behavior, no matter how harmless it may seem in the moment.

“Fireworks can be incredibly dangerous when not used properly,” said a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office. “This was a devastating accident, and our thoughts are with Tyler’s loved ones.”

As the investigation wraps up, officials say they don’t expect further developments but want to use the tragedy as a reminder of the importance of caution during holiday celebrations involving explosives.

No memorial plans have been announced at this time.