WESTERLY, R.I. (WPRI) — Westerly police continue to investigate a fireworks-related death that occurred earlier this year.

According to Chief Paul Gingerella, the cause of 39-year-old David Ziegenfuss's death on May 12 was determined to be a "blast injury" to the head.

Gingerella said it appeared that Ziegenfuss and others were messing around with fireworks at a home on Pound Road when a mortar-style firework was put on his head and set off.

That type of firework is illegal in Rhode Island, the chief noted. However, Gingerella said the manner of his death has been deemed accidental.

The incident remains under investigation.

While ground-based fireworks such as sparklers are legal in Rhode Island, public safety officials strongly advise leaving the fireworks to professionals.