Harrowing footage shows the moments before Allen Ray McGrew’s death

A man who died after placing a lit firework on top of his head to celebrate Independence Day shared a heartbreaking final message to his family.

In the moments leading up to Allen Ray McGrew’s death, the Californian, who was dressed as Uncle Sam, spoke lovingly to his son Hunter and wife Paige.

On Thursday (4 July), Dorchester County Sheriff’s department was called to an address in Cottonwood Drive, Summerville in South California, after the 41-year-old set a firework off on his top hat at 10.30pm.

Allen McGrew was ‘living his best life’ before his tragic death. (Paige McGrew)

His wife told told The Post and Courier that she thought he was ‘just showboating before he set it on the ground’ but then realized ‘he had already lit it’ and despite her and others’ warnings, the firework erupted.

The dad immediately collapsed before he was pronounced dead at the scene at 11.10pm, Dorchester County Sheriff’s department confirmed.

Coroners concluded that he died as a result of ‘massive head injuries’, which would’ve killed him immediately.

Both his son and wife have spoke to the press to discuss the incident.

His 20-year-old son told The New York Post: “We’re traumatized.”

Allen McGrew passed away at the age of 41 (Facebook/ Allen McGrew)

Tragically, the family have had to defend McGrew from the negativity that has been thrown his way due to him setting a firework off on his head, as they explained he wasn’t a ‘drunken fool’.

The 53-year-old told the Post: “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.

“He loved this country and looked forward to celebrating every year.”

Paige also explained that her husband embraced them both and shared what was to be one of their final moments together.

She explained that he said: “You are my rock, and you are my heart.”

Clarifying what he meant, Paige added: “Me being his rock and his son being his heart.”

The dad died in a tragic accident. (Kate McGrew)

She explained ‘everyone was drinking a little’ on the night of the party but ‘Allen was not a drinker’ and ‘didn’t drink regularly’.

According to Paige, Allen had said the Fourth of July party would be the last time he drunk in a while and an opportunity not just to celebrate independence day, but also their son Hunter’s engagement and wedding day.