By AP
New Madrid, MO – A fireworks accident has taken the life of a volunteer firefighter in southeast Missouri.
New Madrid Police Chief Claude McFerren says the accident happened during Friday night's Fourth of July display along the Mississippi River.
40-year-old Bill Poley was helping light fireworks when he was struck by a fireworks mortar about five minutes into the display. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Poley lived in Marston and served as a volunteer with the New Madrid Fire Department. He worked for the city as an animal control officer and street department worker.
