Roxbury, ME – A 41-year-old South Paris man was killed Saturday night during a private fireworks display in Roxbury, Maine, after being struck by a projectile allegedly discharged from a mini cannon, officials said.
According to the Maine State Police, the Oxford County Sheriff’s Office, MedCare Ambulance Service, and Roxbury Fire Department responded to a residence around 9:24 p.m. Saturday for reports of an individual who had collapsed during a gathering. The man, identified as Joseph Hennessey, was transported from the scene by emergency medical personnel but was later pronounced dead.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit were called to assist with the ongoing investigation.
An autopsy was conducted at the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in Augusta. Preliminary findings suggest Hennessey was allegedly killed by a projectile discharged during the fireworks display. Investigators said the object was fired from a small cannon used as part of the event’s pyrotechnics.
Officials did not immediately release information regarding the ownership or legal status of the mini cannon involved. Authorities confirmed that the investigation remains active and is being handled by the Major Crimes Unit.
No charges have been filed as of Tuesday, and officials have not commented on whether criminal negligence is suspected. The Maine State Police continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Anyone with information related to the event is urged to contact the Maine State Police.
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